Alternatives to a gas powered OB on a dinghy ?

[cal40john]

How small an engine do you need. Honda has an optional electric start down to its 8 hp engine. Read somewhere that Tohatsu also has electric start on their 8 hp.

Honda BF8 Outboard Engine - 8 hp boat motor specs and features

[SkiprJohn]

Electric start Honda is very heavy.

[lonesoldier0408]

Capacitor Bank would be lighter than a battery bank. Expense based on source and your ability to put it together. Life of Bank 10 to 20 years.

[zeehag]

research torqueedo.

[Azul]

Unless you have a torn rotator cuff that you aren't going to have repaired you should be able to rehab your shoulder at home with a pulley and progressive weights to simulate the movement. Or even small dumb bells, like the guy on P90X does. Look up how to do this under acromio-clavicular joint strain/tears rehab.

That Port Townsend nesting dinghy looks sweet too, no motor needed and the rowing might be good for you.

[billr]

Fixing your joint problem is the best strategy. I have lived with them for 40 years, but about 6 years ago I started taking glucosimine. Drug stores sell it, and COSTCO has really good prices - its pretty cheap. Take it every day, and after about 2 years you will remember when you used to have joint problems. Use the progressive excercises too, and be careful to re-build them slowly. But, you will be amazed, and its a whole lot better than getting blown around on an inflatable with a sail. Billr