CONTINUOUSWAVE

[I bought a 2014 240 DAUNTLESS ] with a 300-HP. [The capacity plate] says 300-HP [maximum] power.
Now the new [2020] 240 DAUNTLESS can be outfitted with 350-HP.

[Implied question: can my 2014 DAUNTLESS be re-powered with a 350-HP or 400-HP engine?]

The capacity plate on your boat as it came from the manufacturer sets the limits. Boston Whaler will not change the hull ratings just because a more recently manufactured model has different ratings.

For advice about powering above the manufacturer rating see the FAQ.

Boston Whaler has a corporate sister named Mercury. Boston Whalers boats select engines produced by Mercury.

At the time the Dauntless 240 was first designed, the transom was engineered to handle 700 lbs. The weight of the 2014 engine closest to 700 lbs was the Mercury 300hp Verado model at 600lbs .

Since that time, Mercury has introduced a 350 Verado that weighs 688lbs, still under the transom weight limit. Given this, the current Dauntless 240 has the same transom weight rating but the capacity horsepower rating has increased to 350hp.

You, as an owner, can install which ever engine(s) you want on the transom of any model you have. Even the Verado 400 comes in under the transom weight limit. Whether the boat can handle the engine weight or the top speed in a safe manner is not know or guaranteed. The capacity plate only restricts the builder at the time of production and first sale.

Is it a good idea to repower with a 350hp? Financially, most will say no. What will the perfomance improvement be? 3 mph according to Boston Whaler. See last page of this performance report from Boston Whaler http://bostonwhaler.com.s3.amazonaws.com/resources/240%20DAUNTLESS-2021-PERFORMANCE-SHEET.pdf

I was curious about possible [engine] options.

[Rhetorical question: will the cost to replace the 300-HP engine with a 350-HP or 400-HP produce a change in performance that justifies the expense?]

The 300-HP is plenty; getting a 350 or more would be fun if [the seas were] always flat—but I never have that luxury or security.

The response is appreciated.

To know is interesting.