1972 16' Tahiti engine offset to port side

[Josephmcg]

Hello all, I am getting a 1972 16' Tahiti ready for the season, I am going to mount a 1990 evinrude 140 V4 to it but when I went to mount it, I took some measurements and realized the engine mounting holes are favored to the port side by 1/2".

Was this a common practice back then? Or should I fill the holes and re drill dead center? Any and all help would be greatly appreciated, thanks -joey

 

[Scott Danforth]

two things

first, someone was slopy
second, measure the holes. i believe the hole mounting pattern changed in the mid 80's

I would fill and drill myself

 

[rat boat]

I heard that some times they did that to counteract the gyroscopic force of the motor. Now they go dead center because of different motor forces and CG balance.

 

[Josephmcg]

My thoughts exactly, I dont think anyone was sloppy as the holes are plumb and level, they are just offset a 1/2". They also do this with airplanes because of the torque of the engines try to twist the vessel and this will compensate for it. I think I may just mount the engine with the holes the way they are, and if it doesnt track straight or leans I will fill, and drill