Outboard Transom Bracket for Better Performance?

[SeaFool]

I have a MacGregor 26D, 1991 model year, and I'm wondering if putting my outboard engine on a transom bracket would give me better control. My outboard has a 20" shaft. I've been told that the boat should have an outboard with a 25" shaft. Instead of getting a shaft extension for the outboard, I'm thinking the transom back would allow me to position the prop lower in the water and also move the prop away from the rudder for better steering control under power. Does anyone know if this arrangement would give my boat better performance? Thanks for your help.

SeaFool

 

[Johnb]

The biggest and worst limitation of an outboard motor comes in big waves when the propeller lifts out of the water. It was a curse when I had my Clipper Marine 23 and on several occasions curtailed our trips.

Anything that moves the motor further back just makes it worse. My opinion is you need to judge if this could be a problem for where you are and what you do and get the longer shaft if you need it.

 

[SeaFool]

Thank you for that info.

 

[AndyVS]

My Mac 26S came from the PO with an adjustable transom bracket and an older Merc 7.5 short shaft. While not perfect, mine does get the prop deep enough. I've added a tiller extension because when you lower the bracket, it moves the motor down and away from the transom. Biggest challenge is my shifter is on the side of the motor so it's quite a reach down there. I like to keep some rudder in the water for steerage but I have docked a number of times in very shallow water using just the motor. It gets easier the more you do it.

I'm not too far away from you and I'm hoping to get to Lake Erie this fall.

Andy

 

[Ron20324]

If the prop gets lowered, so does the motor housing and get swamped. A 25 shaft is the best idea.

 

[lillia28]

Moving the motor back can also shift the center of gravity aft, causing her to sit bow high. That being said, there must be hundreds of Macs with outboard brackets. They used to sell (or you can make) a bracket that connected the motor to the rudder, so when you turned one, the other turned. If the prop isn't lifting when the boat pitches, this may be your best bet. As a side point, the mount is designed to lift the motor when not in use. You can install it so it lowers the motor, but then don't follow the instructions. And you may not get the motor out of the water when sailing. Not sure which issue you are trying to correct, but the steering bracket may be your best bet.
lou