How do I hook up two motors on my boat?

How do you install two outboard motors on one boat?

• Is this complicated? What kind of parts should I type into Google to find this? How do you hook up the steering for two motors, and the ignition system? Where can I find tutorials and parts for doing this?

• Answer:

  1st off, there is basically two different ways of having dual outboards. one way is dual big outboards, the outboards are usually the same size and model (except one is CW prop and the other is CCW prop rotation). the boat MUST be designed and built for it. you cant turn your boat into one of those. and you wouldnt want to either, weight is a factor in how much you get out of power, a second outboard adds a lot of weight. better off with just one at the max rating for your hull, burn less gas too. the other type is a "kicker motor". its a 10 hp little outboard mainly used as a trolling motor on larger boats or in rougher waters. that can be added to many boats, but i would talk to your service and sales shop about your specific boat. and let a pro do the install. steering the kicker motor is simple: http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=107050&catalogId=10001&langId=-1&storeId=11151&storeNum=10106&subdeptNum=10469&classNum=10473 just a metal rod that attaches at one end to your existing outboard or drive for sterndrive boats and the other end connects to the kicker motor, steer with your normal motor and the kicker turns too.