Dorsett "Catalina" Factory HP limitations?, outboards

[delvel]

So I've read severl threads BB404's question on his Bell Boy. Interesting answers by Sparrowhawk and BBBob. Still dosn't quite tell me much for my situation.

Cruising inland Lakes and rivers (Coeur d' alene, Priest lake,Priest river, Pend Oreille River etc.).

I've seen everything from 35HP on up.

No one answers how much weight can/does the transom safely support?

seems to me that a 50-60hp would be the best all around motor.

What HP/ shaft length did the factory recommend? any info in brochures etc..

What does experience and the "school of hard knocks" say?

Thanks
Delvel

My 1962 Dorsett sales brochure lists the following for the Catalina:

Length, gunwale: 17' 10"

Length, overall 16" 8"

Beam, Maximum 79"

Beam, stern 68"

Weight (approx.) 860 lb.

Max horsepower 85

It all depends on the year and what condition your transom is in.

I can tell you from experience that much over 50 hp is a waste on Catalina's from 1959 to 1963. They become hard to control over 30 mph. Trim tabs help.

Catalina's from 1964 to 1970 (last year made) have a much different hull and can handle up to 150 hp according to all of my documentation.

Todd

[delvel]

Now I know what to Look for!

Thanks for all the good info.
Delvel