transom motor mount

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Oct 7, 2008
26
Ranger 26 Mandeville, LA
my kicker motor sits in the cutout of my 26 footer. my only problem is that i am restricted from side to side swing because it hits left and right the cutout is not wide enough . should i just use it on this limited movement and use the tiller for steering in and out of my narrow slip, or should i get a transom mount to kick the motor out side the transom so i get more swing?
 

Tim R.

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May 27, 2004
3,626
Caliber 40 Long Range Cruiser Portland, Maine
If you can maneuver with it the way it is why change? If you cannot, then get a transom mount. This seems like more of a preference issue. Only you know what works best for your boat. Also, it can take time to get used to steering a boat with a rudder under power, especially in reverse. Give it time or ask someone with a similar boat to help show you the ropes.
 
Jun 8, 2004
853
Pearson 26W Marblehead
steering under outboard power

Use the tiller . Ive got a pearson 26w with a cutout in the transon to mount an outboard. I just leave the outboard on center line and use the tiller. Has worked fine for the past 9 years.

Bffatcat
 
Jun 19, 2004
512
Catalina 387 Hull # 24 Port Charlotte, Florida
The People In My Marina

That have a cutout leave their motors in the center and use the tiller. I would think it would be easier to use the tiller. A matter of personal preference. Also, if you don't have to buy a mount, then you could spend that money on something else.
 
Sep 29, 2008
2
Macgregor 26 Alameda
Tiller works good except for very tight turns

I have a MacGregor with the outboard in a cutout. It works fine, but you cannot make extreme tight turns. I have used other boats with the outboard that could turn and it does give more flexibility for tight turns. I have found that I can manuever in and out of a slip without much problem and haven't felt limited with the outboard left in the center position.
 

Tim R.

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May 27, 2004
3,626
Caliber 40 Long Range Cruiser Portland, Maine
Also

The closer the OB is to the fore/aft center of the boat, the better it will perform in rough weather. If it is further aft, it is more likely to lift out of the water in steep waves. Leave it where it is.
 
May 16, 2007
1,509
Boatless ! 26 Ottawa, Ontario
I moved mine back

My motor is in a well on the transom, beside the rudder. I added a high density plastic spacer 1/2" thick between the motor and the transom. This moved the motor back far enough I can turn the motor lock to lock. I usually only use the motor to steer when in a very tight low speed turn, also when docking in high winds it can save the day. Also works very well in reverse, I can go any place in reverse under any conditions. I also like to use it to pull the stern in when docking.
Bob
 
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