Mercury 50 blue band mounting

[tshelton1]

I recently got my first boat and after taking it out the first time and it having a slight miss I started going over everything on it. It has a 1985 Mercury 50 on it. I checked the compression on the cylinders and they have good even pressure. I took the carbs off and cleaned them ect. The motor runs great now and Im about ready to start hitting the water.

I decided I would unbolt the motor and clean up the transom and replace the bolts. There are a total of 8 mounting holes but there were only 4 being used. Both bottom bolts on the motor mount and the top bolt on the left trim mount and the bottom bolt on the right trim mount. And the 2 clamps on top

These are the only places that have holes in transom for bolts so I assume its been this way forever but want to make sure it is ok. Also the bolts were carriage bolts which worked great but didnt know if I should use regular bolts. Sorry if these terms are incorrect I am new to working on boats. I can post pictures in the morning.

 

[achris]

4 bolts is normal. If the 2 clamps are done up tight, you can get away with just the 2 bottom bolts.

Chris...

 

[GA_Boater]

The clamps and two bottom bolts hold the motor on. The extra holes are to raise or lower the motor for fine tuning performance. I'm not sure about the trim bolts, but they worked since 1985, so they are probably OK.

Stainless carriage bolts are used to mount the motor. Actually they allow you to tighten the bolts by yourself and are probably OK.

Use some sealant like 3M 5200 or 3M 4200 to seal the holes and protect the wood from water caused rot.

 

[tshelton1]

Thanks for all the help! Im sure there will be more questions along the way.

 

[GA_Boater]

Didn't mind my manners and welcome you a properly.

:welcome: aboard, ts.

While mounting bolts are out, check the wood. Mounting holes are where most rot starts.