Coast Gaurd recertification

[latigo1]

Is possible to have an older bass boat recertified for a higher horsepower? I was wondering because I see a lot of newer models(some with same hull molds) that have nearly double the of an similar sized boat from say, late 90's.

Chad

[jingjoseph]

Old post I know but had a 97 nitro 700lx dc with a 120. It was rated for a 145. Wanted to put a 150 on it, no go. Was not allowed.

[mygreenihc]

The Coast Guard is not the only factor involved in an HP rating on a particular boat.  My understanding is that the manufacturer actually has a formula that they use to rate their boats and it takes into account much more information specific to that boat than what the Coast Guard requires.  The Coast Guard basically states that the manufacturer can rate it however they feel they should as long as it does not exceed their formula which only uses dimensional data.   

With that said,  there is a performance method that can be used,  and it is not in the information below,   I understand that you can state your case to the Coast Guard and prove the stability of the vessel and get that rating modified.  I doubt that it would be worth your time if you could even figure out how to prove it.   

Here is the short version of the law:

[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 33, Volume 2]
[Revised as of July 1, 2001]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 33CFR183.53]

[Page 763-765]

TITLE 33--NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS

CHAPTER I--COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED)

PART 183--BOATS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT--Table of Contents

Subpart D--Safe Powering

Sec. 183.53 Horsepower capacity.

The maximum horsepower capacity marked on a boat must not exceed the
horsepower capacity determined by the computation method discussed in
paragraph (a) of this section, or for certain qualifying boats, the
performance test method discussed in paragraph (b) of this section.
(a) The maximum horsepower capacity must be computed as follows:
(1) Compute a factor by multiplying the boat length in feet by the
maximum transom width in feet excluding handles and other similar
fittings, attachments, and extensions. If the boat does not have a full
transom, the transom width is the broadest beam in the aftermost quarter
length of the boat.
(2) Locate horsepower capacity corresponding to the factor in Table
183.53.
(3) For a boat with a factor over 52.5, if the horsepower capacity
calculated in Table 183.53 is not an exact multiple of 5, it may be
raised to the next exact multiple of 5.   

Brad

[jingjoseph]

Brad for me anyway thanks much for that. Never did understand in my case why 5 more horses was a problem. Local boat guy just told me CG wont allow it. Understand now been thinking about that 2 years. Thanks Much!!!!

[fishinfranklin]

Its not against the law to put a larger engine on a boat. now to insure it will be a big problem.