H260 Motor mount bracket stress crack

[lcd60]

I need to replace or weld the starboard stainless steel bracket that holds my motor mount on a 2001 Hunter 206. It has a 1" stress crack starting from the top .
Can I have it welded and not lose strength? Where can I buy one?
I have emailed hunter and (waiting for a reply). I saw the mod with the square aluminum tubing but would prefer not to go that route .

Lindsay
2001 Hunter 260

 

[MikeH]

Hi Lindsay,
My brackets are a little bent too, but no cracks yet, so I sympathize. I'd recommend against welding them, even if you can find a person with really good stainless welding gear. The process of welding, while it can re-join cracks, creates areas along the sides of the weld that are slightly weaker, so while the crack could be fixed a new weak spot could be created. It would be best to replace the brackets with new, preferably heavier gage. I don't have a source, and I can't look into it for a few weeks, but if I find one I'll post it.

 

[lcd60]

Thanks for the info Mike , I ordered them from hunter $75=shipping

 

[lcd60]

By the way I have receive the brackets and Hunter improved them, they look to be 50% thicker then my originals .

 

[George H260]

Thanks for taking the time to give us feedback on this issue. My 2003 H260 has not had a problem but I know others have experienced this issue.

There are a couple of articles in the H260 knowledgebase on this issue. Go to: http://sbo.sailboatowners.com/index.php?option=com_mtree&task=listcats&cat_id=20&Itemid=257