advice regarding bilge mod.

[adrew]

I wish to replace the fixed trim with select trim for my 3.0L omc 400. It is in a 1985 bayliner capri. The problem is that there is a glassed in cross piece between the stringers that the fixed trim engine mount was bolted to and needs to be removed to make room for the select trim motor. It is not needed for the select trim. Can this cross piece be removed or is it also there for structural support?

 

[JasonJ]

Re: advice regarding bilge mod.

I would say that you should try to see a Capri of same vintage with the motor and trim setup you are converting to. You may find that the crosspiece is in a different location to accomodate the trim. If it wasn't necessary, it wouldn't be in your boat either, I assume. It isn't hard to remove, prep, and glass in the crosspiece, but you might have to remove the drivetrain to remove stresses. Good Luck....

 

[adrew]

Re: advice regarding bilge mod.

what do you mean by removing the drive train to remove stresses?? I guess I was hoping that the cross piece was there only to support the engine and nothing more. Did bayliner design things differently depending on which trim system they put in?? Thanks for your help.

 

[Boatist]

Re: advice regarding bilge mod.

Adrew<br />That cross member is to put motor weight on both stringers and also to hold front of motor down. I do not know your boat but do have a 1980 series 400 140 HP Select trim in my boat. When starting up the front of motor would lift up if it were not connected to the manual trim or selectrim. You may need to cut a hole for the motor to mount.