A while ago we did an article about converting older sterndrives to outboard. Not every boat is a good candidate but there are many that are pretty good. With semi custom brackets, you can integrate an outboard and get the benefit of setback and a swim platform all in one. Like everyone, I’m always trying to think of budget builds that are cool and fun. Donzi Classics are not my favorite boat overall but they are cool looking and usually built pretty solid. Many variations of the 16 were built over the years and very briefly, in low volume, an outboard version was made. With a transom well and a few other minor differences the outboard was before its time. What about now, could you convert a regular 16 to outboard? There are lots of Donzi 16’s and 18’s with old engines that need a repower. 

Here’s an example of what looks like a decent 16. They are generally very simple boats, with snap out carpet, easy to replace upholstery and a good build quality overall. If you find one where the fuel tank was replaced and any structural issues were addressed, you might be able to find the perfect outboard conversion project on a budget. These aren’t super fast hulls but they look cool and can run through a chop pretty well for such a tiny boat. The downfall is the rounded keel and lack of strakes at the back which limits it. The good news is you really don’t need much power on one to have fun. For an outboard I’d be looking at a 150 HP for enough power and keeping it budget friendly. 

A simple single engine bracket should be easy enough to adapt to the relatively flat transom and the old engine bay could become extra storage. I think in many cases, some would say you’re ruining the boat by adding the bracket to a non outboard version but the reality is there are lots of these out there and they aren’t worth much. The one in this ad is $3k, and you can find them all day for around that, slightly more for newer running ones. Iif you sell off the old engine and drive, you could recoup enough for the bracket and rigging. If you’re on a budget, a good used 150 four stroke is reasonable and efficient. With the outboard setup, a 150 HP should outperform a 200 HP or more sterndrive; way lighter, adjustable drive height, weight further aft and other things make it perform better overall. A Mercury 150 four stroke is hard to beat. 

I really think older small boat conversions are a cool idea. Let’s look at some of the basic costs. Armstrong, Stainless Marine, A&J Marine and various other companies make high quality outboard engine brackets that generally range from $600 to $1,800 for a simple single. You can get a bracket only, or one with a small platform. Some are floating, adding a little buoyancy, and others are simply brackets. We featured a very cool older Cigarette 35’ conversion to outboards, so it stands to reason some smaller boats are good candidates. 

Finding a good used bracket is a great ideas as well, because they are cheap and easy enough to refinish to look new again. Most are aluminum some are fiberglass. Many use the same bolt specs as an outboard and you’ll probably look at reinforcing your transom anyway. All in all, you can probably get a nice used one and be into the bracket for $400 to $600, or a more deluxe one with a platform for about $1,000 to $1,500. 

Keep in mind your clearance when deciding how far back you want to go. Measure the distance on the engine you plan on using from where it is tilted and if it will hit your deck. Consider your engine height as well because you might not need as much setback as you think. On a boat like a Donzi Classic, I’d set the height and not bother with a jack plate, just set it and forget it. For a very fair amount of money you could have neat little wave crusher that is super efficient.