Transom outboard bracket backing plate(s)

[gcostell]

Hi, hope to get some good advice here. I did a search for outboard brackets but no luck.

I have a Westerly Pageant and want to fit an outboard bracket on the transom in case I need to use an auxiliary. The bracket is pretty standard and has 4 bolt holes. Looking for suggestions re backing plates and also sealing. Should I get a single steel backing plate or maybe 2 vertical ones?

Should I seal all round the bracket on the transom or just round the bolt holes?

 

[chrishelen]

Hi I fitted one a few years ago, I used some 12mm ply as backing . I sealed the outside plate and the bolts. It hasn't leaked in five years. It takes a 3.5 totatsui.

 

[gcostell]

Thanks for that. Will be looking to use a 5hp engine. Will look at the ply option instead of steel.

 

[chrishelen]

One other thing, remember to use penny washers inside the boat on the ply.

 

[greeny]

And seal the perimeter of the outside mounting. Just sealing the bolts will leave a nice gap between plate and transom where crevice corrosion will start and you will be forever cleaning rust marks from your transom.

 

[gcostell]

Thanks for those tips