Hi Tom,

I’ve used a Honda 8 hp extra long shaft outboard since 1994.  As long as you can keep the prop in the water, 8 hp has always been enough.  The trouble is, if you have run aground, what are the waves doing?  Are breaking waves going to uncover your prop, causing it to cavitate?  I can’t speak to being able to pull off after running aground, as I haven’t done that.  I would think the difference in reverse thrust between 8 hp and 9 hp would be minimal.  You will be able to generate more pulling power by using an anchor and one of your primary winches to “kedge” off.  If you are well and truly stuck, it’s going to take a big power boat to pull you off.  Look at the engines on the commercial tow boats.  Often, they come with twin 250’s with thrust props.  That’s probably a factor of >100X the force either an 8 or 9 hp outboard, or an anchor kedge is going to provide.

Roger Pihlaja
S/V Dynamic Equilibrium
1978. Sanford, MI
Sent from my iPhone

> On Jul 5, 2025, at 10:15 AM, THOMAS POLISE via Rhodes22-list <rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org> wrote:
> 
> I presently have a 9.9 HP motor that is in need of replacement, and was considering the 8 hp Yamaha.  Has anyone gone to 8, and if so is that enough hp against wind and also in assisting in getting off when running aground?
> Thanks