Easier access to outboard over pushpit

[Applescruffs]

I have a 1986 Leisure 17SL and with advancing age and decrepitude my new Mariner5 long shaft 4-stroke is proving to be a struggle to tilt and lift out of the water due to the cross member of the pushpit across the transom. I have one of the standard spring assisted outboard mounts. The problem is that as I lean over to get to the outboard the cross member digs into my ribs and as I lift and tilt the engine it’s very painful, no bruising yet but I’m sure it’s going to happen,

Has anybody removed the cross section of the pushpit to make access easier and would it compromise the strength of the remaining side pieces ? I could possibly rig up some type of removable line to join the cut ends that can be removed when access is required ?

Lastly, is it difficult to cut stainless tube without power tools ?

Thanks in advance for any replies or advice, even if it’s ‘don’t do it !’

Cheers,

Richard

 

[William_H]

I had a similar problem with my 21fter. I would suggest in the short term try tieing a loop of rope around the back of the power head that can help you pull it up at a more comfortable level. I would lift it on the adjustable bracket then tilt it up and use a rope around the back of the power head to tilt the motor right up against the rail. It got the prop well clear.
Later I redesigned the stern rail the have a section in the middle that was part of a boarding ladder. (essential to support the post to carry mast when down) I cut away the cross member. But fitted wire and pelican clips to make the stern rail complete and support sideways the side rails of the stern rail. This left me with an option of a gap above the motor on one side and a gap on the other side for access from transom boarding ladder.
However in recent years I have left the motor home. (too heavy on the transom) (I like to race) and too heavy to lift from the cabin as I once did. My sailing (racing) has an escort boat and had to be towed home recently. But got caught out badly yesterday when i went up river to another club for a race. Wind very light was late starting because of 2mile commute to start line. Finished the race. But was strnaded with little wind to get home. Was aided by a friend who graciously came back for me with his diesel engine. Gracious because it was 33 degrees and he delayed getting home by 45 minutes after a hot grueling race. Heat exhaustion can be a real danger here. Yes you can easily cut SS tubing with hack saw. ol'will

 

[Applescruffs]

Thanks for the reply William,

I hadn’t thought of using a rope but it seems a great idea to try before I start cutting the pulpit about ! I may be able to take the rope through a block on the boom to give a bit more purchase, the boat is on the hard waiting to go in so it’s an experiment I can easily try.

I see what you have done on your transom, looks like a very elegant and practical solution, not sure I’d ditch the engine though, as you found out, they can be useful !

I’m also a bit jealous of your weather, although 33deg is a bit too warm, we currently have 4-5deg with rain, sleet and snow !

cheers,

Richard

 

[ProDave]

Our L17 has a split pulpit, i.e. in 2 halves.



Sorry the only photo I could find showing it at all.

It leaves a gap to get to the OB.

This year we have had made and will be trialling a new back stay that splits to the bridle higher up to further ease access to the motor.

 

[Applescruffs]

Excellent Dave, that’s exactly what I’m looking for !

Did you have it made or is it a DIY? either way it’s just the job, and a good idea about the backstay, it’s always tended to get in the way.

many thanks for taking the time to reply and post the photo.

Cheers,

Richard.

 

[ProDave]

No that was on the boat when we got it and we are the unknown nth owner of an early 70's boat.

 

[Applescruffs]

Cheers Dave !