Transom

[Dan]

I am considering installing a outboard as a back up and will
also use it on the dingy. I know the transom must be reinforced, can
anyone tell me how?
Thanks, Dan

 

[tjelle1946]

Some have used a large plastic cutting board and a thinner sheet off ss plate --the plastic is tough and forms to the shape of the hull. jorgen

 

[elrond8177]

Dan,
My Vega (#2931) has an aluminum sissor type assembly
for raising and lowering my outboard (5hp Nissan).
Inside it has another aluminum plate to sandwich the
hull with four hex bolts to hold the whole thing in
place. I also had to get an extra plate to extend the
whole assembly a few inches lower. It had been
positioned too high before I bought it 3 years ago.
John
Southern Comfort Too
#2931

 

[mocap1]

Several years ago the 022 in my 1969 Vega quit running when I was cruising the Sacramento Delta. Two mechanics were unable to get it running. I installed an adjustable type bracket and used the 5 hp dinghy engine to get home. I was in a hurry and didn't add any reinforcing to the transom, just used a large fender washer on each of the four mounting bolts. I have been operating that way since.

The five hp engine will drive the Vega at almost six knots in calm water without a headwind, a lot slower in adverse conditions.

There are no stress cracks in the gelcoat around the bracket; such cracks would indicate flexing of the transom. However, I don't think I would want to rely on just fender washers if I had a heavier outboard.

Mort