Install outboard bracket on starboard?

[Alex Kowblansky]

I am replacing the factory outboard bracke on my H23 (1990) with a Garelick bracket. Have finally removed the one installed at the factory. I am wondering if the new bracket can be installed on the starboard side so as to balance out the sailboat better. I intend to add 3/4" hardwood backing inside the transom.Thanks for any suggestions.AlexH23

 

[Chip Tobey]

On my H 23, the stern light

On my H 23, the stern light is starboard of the centerline. While it's not ideally positioned to begin with, putting the motor there would obstruct it further.Just curious: Why do you think it would balance the boat better? Because of the battery and/or water tank?

 

[mike]

why?

what happened to your factory bracket? Did you have a bigger motor on it?

 

[Alex Kowblansky]

Yes, to balance water and battery

Thanks. Didn't think of blocking the stern light.

 

[Kevin Keen]

9.9 hp Two-Stroke on port side

I replaced the outboard bracket on the port side with a beefy Garelick lift bracket for a new 2-stroke 9.9 hp and the boat sits level on the water with full water tank and battery on port side, and a full 3-gallon fuel tank under the starboard bench. The lift bracket allows the motor to sit upright with the prop out of the water when at berth or tilted when underway with sail only. I also added a 1/4 inch stainless steel backing plate inside the boat for the motor mount.You could always move the stern navigation light to the port side to accommodate a starboard engine mount.

 

[Ken Alexander]

Don't do it, it dosn't work, been there done that

When I purchased my 23 the pop-up motor mount was on the starboard side with a large 3/4"x28"x28' ply on the in side. It would flex the transom big time under mid load. I put it back on the port side because the transom has the molded in reinforcement on the inside.It does not flex it now. I use a 9hp motor. But I will have to say to use the motor I liked it better on the starboard side.

 

[Alex Kowblansky]

Will install outboard on port

Thanks all for the info. Ken, I suspected that the transcom was reinforced on the port side and thus will keep the backet on the port sideAlex.