I/O to OB or OB to I/O

[ricksrster]

Would it be easier to convert the transom going from an outboard to an I/O or going from an I/O to an outboard.

 

[TD_Maker]

Re: I/O to OB or OB to I/O

Ricksrster,
I have converted an older OMC I/O to an outboard. Once I marked out the 20 inch transom the boat required, I cut out the opening with a saws all. Of course, the hole in the transom still remained; however, a couple of layers of marine grade 3/4 inch plywood glued and screwed in fixed that nicely. Then, I layered two coats of glass to finish the job. I also added a nice sheet of aluminum across the back transom opening just to be sure of my alteration. Worked great!

The biggest problem you will have is building a splash well to fit in the opening you just cut into the back of the boat. Again, marine grade plywood goes a long way to solve your problem if you take your time and do it right. Just light weight glass mat is all that is required here. Be sure to cover with a good marine grade paint.

In my younger days, If I wanted to boat, I was forced to do such things. I learned a lot about boats from those projects. If I didnt, I sunk! Good luck.

 

[sdunt]

Re: I/O to OB or OB to I/O

I don't know if I have ever heard of anyone converting from OB to I/O.. Just buidling the bunks to mount the engine on would stop me right there. How do you know that you've built it strong enough so that V-8 isn't going to go right out the bottom of the boat?

 

[packerbill]

Re: I/O to OB or OB to I/O

Have you done this yet, I have an older LUND and the I/O straigth six is shot.....I have a 115hp Merc outbrd and am really thinking of trying this. Did yours work?

 

[jddenham]

Re: I/O to OB or OB to I/O

I actually have an inboard outboard setup that would be super simple to put in an outboard hull.

It is a late 60's 88HP V-4 2-cycle Johnson motor that mates up to a 'stringer' OMC outdrive.

The whole assembly mounts on top of the floor(with stringers underneath) and uses shims to perfect alignment/height.

All you would have to do is cut the hole and probably put in a taller transom.

The weight is not an issue, as the whole assembly weighs in at the same as an outboard give or take.

I am in the middle of demolishing the boat so I might post pictures.

The previous owner complained of poor performance due to the engine behing too small for the boat. Well after I saw how waterlogged the under-floor foam was - it was no surprise. It was just like having aunt Thelma and cousin Ed riding along!

The motor would make an awesome project for a small boat or go cart etc. I will probably sell it on ebay.

http://www.james.denham.com/Web photos/jb480du.jpg