H260 motor mount

[David Oberholtzer]

My 2001 H260 has a crack near the starboard motor mount. I use a Honda 9.9 as the outboard motor. I have backed both screws with a single 1"x6" bracket inside the hull to strengthen. Has anyone had this happen and any suggestions on what I can do to fix it

Dave O.

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Reviewing the photo, I bet that the bottom of the motor struck something a time or two and was in a sense forced backwards which is the reason for the separation of the bottom stainless steel bracket as there is a bend and also a separation from the sealant. I suggest that you take the motor off to repair. I doubt you have structural damage but it is easier to repair with the motor off. I would dremel out to see how far the crack goes first and then retake and repost a photo. I bet a two part expoxy and some gel coat will do the job but again, I cannot tell for sure from that photo. So another photo please when you have dremeled the crack out.

In addition when trailering the boat with the motor attached, always pull the motor up when loading or off loading the boat to or from the water particularly long shaft or 25 inch length shaft motors. When trailering, leave the motor in the down position and tie a line from the handle of the motor say to the rear base of the stern pulpit to prevent the motor from bouncing up and down going down the road.

crazy dave condon

 

[David Oberholtzer]

I am pretty sure it happened when I left the engine on for trailering. Its a 2 hour drive to where the boat is berthed for the summer. I no longer leave it on for trailering. The mounts are also bent. Is there another option for the metal mounts.

 

[Rick]

Well a fix albiet maybe not permanent would be to seal the crack by removing the braket, and then get a U bracket made that would go around the face and both sides. Then secure the mount with your original bracket... through the bracket into original holes. Add some strength by bolting on sides also. Might keep it from getting worse. Probably will add 1/10th of a degree of helm to port.

Not alot of good options there.

Wow, and she looks pretty rough for a 2001. Ya must have just got back from something fun!

 

[Benny17441]

I think what Crazy Dave is saying is to tie the engine's outboard leg in the down position when trailering so it does not bounce. As far as trailering it is OK to trailer with the engine on. The road forces on the engine and mount are no worse than those imparted by the movements and heeling of the boat when in the water. The weight of the engine in the water and out of the water is practically the same. If any the acceleration and torque forces imparted in heavy seas can exceed most forces imparted by trailering. From the photo it seems the outboard leg may have hit an obstruction. If the engine mount seems to be solidly attached the likelihood of a structural failure is low but the crack in the gelcoat and sealer should be fixed to prevent water intrusion and damage.