How Big Of A Motor For A Pontoon Boat [Explained]

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The Best Pontoon Boat Motor Size A Guide

Pontoon boats are a popular choice for recreational boating, and for good reason. They’re stable, comfortable, and easy to maneuver. But with so many different pontoon boat motors on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the factors you need to consider when choosing a pontoon boat motor, including size, horsepower, and price. We’ll also recommend some of our favorite motors for different types of pontoon boats.

So whether you’re a first-time pontoon boat owner or you’re looking to upgrade your current motor, read on for all the information you need to make the best decision.

So How Big Of A Motor For A Pontoon Boat?

The size of the motor you need for a pontoon boat depends on the boat’s length, weight, and desired speed. A good rule of thumb is to choose a motor that is about 20% of the boat’s weight. For example, a 2,000-pound pontoon boat would require a motor that is about 400 pounds. If you plan on towing skiers or tubers, you will need a larger motor to provide enough power.

How Big of a Motor for a Pontoon Boat?

What Size Motor Do I Need?

The size of the motor you need for your pontoon boat will depend on a number of factors, including:

The weight of your boat
The number of people you plan to carry
The speed you want to achieve
The type of water you’ll be boating on

Generally speaking, you’ll need a larger motor for a heavier boat, a boat with more people on board, and a boat that you plan to use for high-speed cruising. You’ll also need a larger motor if you plan to boat on rough water.

To determine the specific size of motor you need, you can consult the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can also find a number of online calculators that can help you estimate the required horsepower.

How Much Does a Motor Cost?

The cost of a motor for a pontoon boat will vary depending on the size and brand of the motor. You can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for a motor.

What Other Factors Should I Consider When Choosing a Motor?

In addition to the size and cost of the motor, you should also consider the following factors when making your decision:

The type of fuel the motor uses (gas or electric)
The type of controls the motor has (manual or electronic)
The warranty offered by the manufacturer

How to Choose the Right Motor for Your Pontoon Boat

To choose the right motor for your pontoon boat, you need to consider the factors listed above and make a decision that’s right for your needs. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Talk to your boat dealer. They can help you assess your needs and make recommendations based on their experience.
Read reviews of different motors online. This can give you a good idea of what other boaters have to say about different models.
Test-drive different motors before you buy. This is the best way to get a feel for how a motor performs and whether it’s right for you.

By following these tips, you can choose the right motor for your pontoon boat and enjoy years of safe and enjoyable boating.

Also Must Read This: How Big Of A Truck To Pull A Pontoon Boat

FAQs: How big of a motor for a pontoon boat

What size motor do I need for my pontoon boat?

The size of the motor you need for your pontoon boat will depend on a number of factors, including the length of your boat, the weight of your boat, and the type of water you plan to use it on.

How much horsepower do I need for my pontoon boat?

The horsepower of your motor will also depend on the factors listed above. A general rule of thumb is that you will need a motor with at least 1 horsepower for every 1,000 pounds of boat weight. However, if you plan to use your boat in rough water or tow a skier or wakeboarder, you will need a motor with more horsepower.

What type of motor is best for a pontoon boat?

There are two main types of motors that are used on pontoon boats: outboard motors and inboard motors. Outboard motors are mounted on the back of the boat, while inboard motors are mounted inside the boat. Outboard motors are typically easier to install and maintain, but they are also more expensive than inboard motors. Inboard motors are more powerful than outboard motors, but they are also more difficult to install and maintain.

How much does it cost to install a motor on a pontoon boat?

The cost of installing a motor on a pontoon boat will vary depending on the type of motor you choose, the size of your boat, and the location where you have the motor installed. A general rule of thumb is that you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 to install a motor on a pontoon boat.

What are the pros and cons of outboard motors vs inboard motors?

Outboard motors and inboard motors both have their own advantages and disadvantages. Outboard motors are typically easier to install and maintain, but they are also more expensive than inboard motors. Inboard motors are more powerful than outboard motors, but they are also more difficult to install and maintain. Ultimately, the best type of motor for your pontoon boat will depend on your individual needs and budget.

Zach Gilford Author

About The Author

Hey there! I'm Zach, an adventurous guy who enjoys being outside. In addition to having fun on the water, I also enjoy spending time with family and friends. This website is built to answer pontoon boat questions and get boaters out on the water enjoying their boats.

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