what size kicker engine?

[bgreene]

To me a kicker is more trouble, weight, maintainance that worthwhile:
Transom weight, fuel line, steering bar or tiller, etc etc etc.....

Not raining on anyone's parade, just an opinion........

How many times is it ever used for all that's involved ?

My preference: belong to seatow and have a gps.
If your engine quits, drop the anchor, call em' and seatow will come get you, for the minor charge of around $ 100 per year.

In the last 20 years I called seatow twice and it was almost fun......fast tow boat came right out, towed me all the way to the ramp, and said, have a nice day.