Question regarding my inflatable

[wpg-guy]

Hello guys, I have a 13' inflatable with 15 hp Honda engine on it. The boat has a short transom, but unfortunately the motor I got is a long shaft. I can get the boat on plane, but after speeding a bit water starts coming into my boat. I was wondering if the problem is with the long shaft motor.

Is there any way of converting a long shaft to short shaft or using any sorts of mounting brackets??


Thanks

 

[deejaycee_2000]

Re: Question regarding my inflatable

Yes, the long shaft will cause water to run into the boat ..... you can try a transom elevator, it is basically a transom extension but this will eventually work out your pontoons as they will stretch much quicker than normal, it might be possible to convert your honda into a short shaft, I am not too familiar with honda outboards, but you can phone your dealer and ask them .... otherwise the best bet would be to either swop or trade in your long shaft for a sort shaft .....

 

[AGENT 37]

Re: Question regarding my inflatable

I've put little plywood extensions off of the top of the transom on one of my boats to overcome this problem, the water came up the transom and then got diverted backwards, a little still came over the back where I left an opening for tiller movement but it certainly helped. We also just built up my friends transom five inches but it is only powered by an 8 hp Mariner. We needed to run into shallower water to beach the boat.

 

[sunaj]

Re: Question regarding my inflatable

I was running my Achilles with a 9.9 long shaft and it ran like a race horse no problems

 

[nthrngrayling]

Re: Question regarding my inflatable

Suggest you make up a transom lift.
I have a 14' Zebec with a 50 hp Johnson jet. Had to raise the transom to have the foot of the jet even with the bottom of the hull.
Sandwich the transom with two alum plates,(3/16 to 1/4) from the floor to the top of the transom, plus (likely 5.0 inches) additional height required. Then welded a cap across the top. Fit a wood insert in the area above the transom. Secure the plates through the transom with four bolts and the insert with a couple of bolts to secure it in place.
I have used mine for four years on rivers in this area and have had some good loads in the boat and have had no problems with the transom. (in spite of bounceing more than just a few rocks) I can send you a couple photos if required.
Take care,
ng