whats the smallest outboard you would put on a v20
 

may be buying one shortly, whats the least amount of hp you would put on a center console v20?

Mine runs out great with my '75 merc 115.... It is generally accepted here that 90 is the smallest that will work BUT a modern 90 SHOULD have the same power to the prop as my old 115 soooo you MIGHT be able to get by with a little less in a modern 2 stroke.... A 4 stroke would need to be a little bigger due to weight.
Your use will also affect this... If you generally go out with 2 huge coolers full of ice and 4 guys n gear you will have much different results than if you boat solo with minimal gear.

X2... what Smoke said. And I can tell you from first hand experience that a 65 HP engine will NOT get you up on plane.

Thanks guys i appreciate it.

now the search begins

if anyone knows of a good deal on a 115-200 hp outboard with good compression let me know.

cheaper the better so probably carbed

115 is the smallest I would go ,I have a 150 hanging off mine even if a 90 would be ok I would go no smaller than a 115 that's just my opinion. I also think that the plate mounted on the boat says that too

A 90 will do it. And considering WELLCRAFT sold them with 90's from the factory, I would say it is a safe bet. The old 1.6L SEA-DRIVE was the same powerhead as a 90HP propshaft rated engine. It was rated at 115HP at the flywheel, but in 85 when propshaft ratings came out it became a 90HP. My 1.6L SEA-DRIVE was no powerhouse, but it did plane out my cuddy with power to spare(but not much). Topped out around 24 or so IIRC, and cruised about 18-20. The downside was it was a FUEL HOG! Because the engine was loaded so hard, it GULPED fuel.

Personally I wouldn't go lower than a 140 or 150. A 90 might push it, but it's gonna be working hard all the time you're on a plane.

My 1975 merc 115 (90 hp by today's standards) will plane my V20 at 1/2-2/3 throttle

My uncle's 89 V20 cuddy moved fine with a 130 Yamaha on it. Since he put a 225 Yamaha on there it moves really well.

Super reputable used motor dealer in my experience - ARG Marine, florida, ask for Victor.

I searched a lllllllong time before finding and buying from them, shipped the motor in a proper crate, warrantied, addressed all my questions in writing, all good.

Way too may questionable used motors out there, especially older one's without hour meter so you have no idea how old/ used/ tired.

Another good way is from outboard motor dealers who get them on trade.

Good luck, and .......... I'd go with 150 hp. Motor will work less hard too.