Motor bracket installation

[umop_apisdn]

So the little antique motor I got runs like a champ, and I got an antique motor bracket to go with it, which cleaned up quite nicely. Now to get it all installed.

So I need ideas for re-inforcing the transom for mounting the new bracket. I have a 5 inch access port to the inside of the lazerette. Oh, and the inside of the lazerette is painted with oil enamel.

What kind of materials should I use to strengthen the transom? I was thinking a pair of fir 1x4s placed vertically?

Should I try to also involve the deck or port topsides somehow, to spread the load away from the transom?

What kind of glue should I use? I have heard lots about not putting epoxy over paint.

Should I put additional fasters in, beyond the bolts attaching the bracket?

BTW, the motor is a 3.5 horse. I haven't weighed it, but I think around 30 lbs or so.

Thanks in advance,

Noel

[umop_apisdn]

One more thing: I was planning on adding wedges between the bracket and transom, to keep the bracket vertical. Any reason not to do this?

Thanks,

Noel

[capt jake]

I just backed mine up with a piece of plywood. Don't remember the thickness. Painted it and smeared some marine sealant on it to help hold it in place.

Wedges, only if you need it to keep the motor vertical. Most have a range of adjustment in the trim/tilt.

[Barry Pyeatt]

Agreed! Plywood will have less of a tendency to want to split than a 1X4 might. 3/8" would be plenty thick, 1/2" would be fine too! If you are limited to less than 5" wide strips then two minimum should be enough. I would paint them before attaching them as well. Let the paint dry for a couple days before installing them. Large fender washers will help to spread the load over a wider surface area with the thru bolts. The wedges won't hurt at all if you don't have a tilt adjustment on the engine itself.

You can use 3-M 5200 to hold the pieces of wood inplace and they will be there forever. Or P&L Construction Adhesive.

[umop_apisdn]

The bracket is from the 50's and has no tilt adjustment, hence the need for wedges.

I will post pictures when I get it put back together. It still needs one more coat of paint.

Noel

[umop_apisdn]

I also made a motor stand that bolts to the trailer, so the motor will only be on the boat while in the water. When trailering down the road, the motor will ride on its own stand.

EDIT: Well, it will ride on the transom down the ramp, and those can be rather rough sometimes. So I guess it will bounce around a bit back there. Hmm.....

Noel