25 with 4-stroke, wants power thruster

[CJ]

I have a '78 25 with a fulton outboard bracket and a Honda 8hp 4-stroke. The bracket is mounted to a wedge and then to the transom. I think the bracket is a 2-stroke bracket. I have never had any trouble with the bracket and/or torque. My question is, has anybody had this setup with a "power thruster" added? Has there been any problems?CJ

 

[Rod Johnson,]

What is a "Power Thruster"?

Your present bracket, if it is the original one installed by O'Day was rated for up to 15 hp. A 15 hp outboard (even 2-stroke) would weigh more than an 8hp Honda. I'm not aware of any retrofit power-lift for outboard brackets, so if that is what you are asking, you will need to get a new bracket that has the lifting aid built in. If what you mean is a sort-of "Kort-Nozzle" that surounds the prop, then you should be OK, especially if you normally steer with the rudder. If you do turn the outboard when manuevering, I'd advise not using more than slow speed when the motor is turned to avoid over-stressing the bracket arms.

 

[CJ]

Yes, it is

Yes, it is like the "Kort Nozzle". It is featured in the O'day Owners chandlery. Have you ever used a product like this? Is it worth a trial? Lifting the outboard is an issue for my wife. I don't know that it's a big enough issue to warrant the cost of a auto lift. A simple 3 to 1 is alot cheaper. Thanks.CJ

 

[Rod Johnson,]

Seen but not used

I have seen those, but never used a boat with one. It does seem to prevent the prop from chewing up the rudder, although I've made a plexiglas fin that does that on my boat.