Exploring returning to boat racing

[Smiley]

Hi,

Since 1964, when I discontinued racing, their have been many changes in APBA SO racing. Since I still weigh 132lbs and the Seattle region does not race B or equivalent runabout classes, it looks like AXS or A is the choice for me.

It looks like the Mercury 15 or Mariner 15, OMC evinrude or Johnson and the new Sidewinder A (Now provisional but legal for 2010) are the motors available for AXS and/or A.

It further looks like the OMC evinrude/Johnsons are nearing the end of their life cycle in the sport. Is this a correct assumption? These are suitable for J/AXS and A

I am contemplating getting back into the sport, cost is not a factor.

Given the above, I ask the following questions.

1. The Sidewinder is upward capable to B class. What is your read on future parts availability, etc. and company support? COMMENT In the experimental aviation industry, cottage industry products have a high risk of obsolescence due to personal issues of the founder. Is their a similar risk for this company?

2. What are the OMC Evinrude/Johnson model numbers acceptable for J/AXS and A? What is the going used price range for these motors, ready to race? Are parts availability a problem? Is someone manufacturing suitable replacement parts?

3.What Mercury/Mariner 15 powerhead models that are legal for AXS. What is the going used price range for these motors, ready to race? Does the Mercury/Mariner have a longer future in the sport than the OMC Evinrude/Johnson? Are parts availability a problem?

Are there any other thoughts you have that are relevant for making a choice between the above motors?

Any comments and motor availability you may know would be appreciated.

Thanks for your input and support.

Bob Smiley

[csh2z]

Welcome back Bob,
I think your best investment would be an "A" Sidewinder. Stock Outboard is in a transitional phase right now and you will encounter some hurt feelings and negativity as you research your options. The SORC has been working with Racing Outboards LLC. for the last 3-4 years in developing the Sidewinder motors as "the motor of choice" for three classes ( A, 15SS & B). With the Yamato 302, the Bass-Tohatsu "D" and the Sidewinders, new motors are available for all of Stock Outboards premier classes.

[Trihedral_1]

When I got back into racing 20ss/CSH 5rs ago, I just went to a race and scoped out who was racing & what was new with boats and motors. I learned all I needed to know in about a day, and even found two "kids" to drive the boat for me...
If you can make it to Lake Lawrence in Yelm, Wa. next weekend (25-27th) I think you'll find there's a lot of good A stock equipment available in the Northwest.
Also, racing hasn't changed much. I bet you'll see guys you raced against in the '60's..

Jimi O. (305-R)

[David_L6]

Welcome back Bob,
I think your best investment would be an "A" Sidewinder. Stock Outboard is in a transitional phase right now and you will encounter some hurt feelings and negativity as you research your options. The SORC has been working with Racing Outboards LLC. for the last 3-4 years in developing the Sidewinder motors as "the motor of choice" for three classes ( A, 15SS & B). With the Yamato 302, the Bass-Tohatsu "D" and the Sidewinders, new motors are available for all of Stock Outboards premier classes.

Looks like Stock Outboard has a plan........

Sidewinder: A & B (I don't know what 15SS is )

Yamato: C

Bass/Tohatsu: D (but what about the Mercury 44XS?)

[csh2z]

David,
Stock Outboard does have a plan. It just needs to be advertised better. The transition is difficult, especially during challenging economic times. Hopefully the economy will improve soon and people will see more clearly that the direction we've taken is our best opportunity for success.

[Matt Dagostino]

Axsh....................

Hi,

Since 1964, when I discontinued racing, their have been many changes in APBA SO racing. Since I still weigh 132lbs and the Seattle region does not race B or equivalent runabout classes, it looks like AXS or A is the choice for me.

It looks like the Mercury 15 or Mariner 15, OMC evinrude or Johnson and the new Sidewinder A (Now provisional but legal for 2010) are the motors available for AXS and/or A.

It further looks like the OMC evinrude/Johnsons are nearing the end of their life cycle in the sport. Is this a correct assumption? These are suitable for J/AXS and A

I am contemplating getting back into the sport, cost is not a factor.

Given the above, I ask the following questions.

1. The Sidewinder is upward capable to B class. What is your read on future parts availability, etc. and company support? COMMENT In the experimental aviation industry, cottage industry products have a high risk of obsolescence due to personal issues of the founder. Is their a similar risk for this company?

2. What are the OMC Evinrude/Johnson model numbers acceptable for J/AXS and A? What is the going used price range for these motors, ready to race? Are parts availability a problem? Is someone manufacturing suitable replacement parts?

3.What Mercury/Mariner 15 powerhead models that are legal for AXS. What is the going used price range for these motors, ready to race? Does the Mercury/Mariner have a longer future in the sport than the OMC Evinrude/Johnson? Are parts availability a problem?

Are there any other thoughts you have that are relevant for making a choice between the above motors?

Any comments and motor availability you may know would be appreciated.

Thanks for your input and support.

Bob Smiley

Bob
For a guy your weight just starting back AXSH is what i would suggest. The Merc 15 is readily available and George Stillwill will 'tune' the engine at a reasonable cost for you. Many of your fellow Westcoasters use his services for the Merc 15!

The advantage of AXSH would be weight! The class weight is 325lbs and given an average AXSH hull you will be right at the weight plus or minus a few pounds. The class is also gaining momentium out your way.

Good luck!

Matt D.