Installing an adjustable kicker bracket through my transom

[Rick.]

I plan on mounting the above to the transom of my aluminum boat. Where the bracket will be mounted there is plywood sandwiched between aluminum. The transom is rock solid and built for a 50 hp. main motor. I have a 40 HP on it now. The thickness is 1 3/4 inches. The bracket is punched for carriage bolts. Not sure of the size but it looks to be for about a 5/16 bolt. How do I go about this and make certain everything is sealed properly. I will never use it in salt water so what type of hardware is acceptable. Plated, Galvanized or stainless? Do I use washers on the outboard side or not? Any help will be appreciated. The unit I have is old but never been used and manufactured out of aluminum, stainless steel and wood. I have no mounting hardware or instructions but I can do the job with a little advice. Thanks for your help. Rick.

 

[JimS123]

Re: Installing an adjustable kicker bracket through my transom

I can only tell you what I did and it has lasted many many years.

3/8" SS Hex bolts with locknuts. (not carriage bolts) That was the largest size that fit the hole. Washers both sides. The mount was fastened directly to the outside of the hull. I got a piece of 1/2" thick aluminum and cut it to about the same size as the mount and put this inside as a backer plate. Seal the holes with West 5200.

Mount it as high as possible on the transom so that in the up position the motor will be as far out of the water as possible. When lowered it only needs to be low enough that the pump inlet is under water.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Installing an adjustable kicker bracket through my transom

If you drill the holes slightly oversize, you can then mix up a little poly or epoxy resin, and paint the inside of the holes to help seal the plywood core you said is there. Apply a few coats, and after cured, run the right size bit through it to be sure the bolts will fit. Then use a good sealer like 3M 4200 or Boatlife boat seal on the bolts/holes to seal it all up.