Motor Mount: Fixed Mount vs Adjustable mount?

[mainegrw]

As the weather is starting to improve, I am starting to look at finishing the repairs on my DS II. One of the items on my list is to get and install a motor mount. I am not sure whether or not I should use a fixed motor mount or a spring loaded adjustable mount. Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.
- Greg

[Capt Dave]

Greg,
I asked the very same question not that long ago. Because my DS II is outfitted with a stern mounted traveler I wanted a set up to not only avoid the traveler but also move the motor out of the cockpit area. The reply that concerned me the most was that when moving the motor farther away from the transom there is potential for the stern to drag in the water. So after much deliberation I have decided to mount my motor on the transom but replace the original mainsheet set up with a mid boom block sheet set up. Then next year invest in a midship traveler, improving performance in the process.

Please post some pictures of your project I would be very interested in seeing it as I will be moving mine into the garage soon to start working on her for when the ice go out.

[mainegrw]

David, I thought about doing what you did, however after much discussion on the forum, I decided not to switch to a mid boom sheet. I got the impression that due to an increase of weight concentrated to one point on the boom, the boom is prone to bending under heavy load. Additionally, a traveler didn't seem economical, as I do not race, and being able to comfortably accommodate a few people on board was more important. I did consider the option of adding a topping lift to help keep the rigging up and out of the way while under power. My idea is that if the boom was suspended on both ends, I could pull in the sheet close into center, and thusly pulling the rear lines up and out of the way. This is my first year with this boat so this summer is going to be full of experimentation.

As far as photos of the repairs we've done, I don't have many. Most of the process so far has been fiberglass repair here and there (Mostly cosmetic). One spot I do have a photo of is up under the cuddy: it needed repair and reinforcement due to cracking of the ribs (Post repair). This was a result of the boat being stored upside down for much of its life previous to my ownership.

I decided recently that I am going to focus on making the vessel seaworthy for this year, and work on the cosmetics when I can afford the time and cash to do so. Right now replacing the sheaves in the mast head is the top priority, followed by the motor mount or whatever I decide to do... That's about it. Everything else seems to be in good order, and I just want to sail.

You can check out my personal gallery I see what photos I do have, they may give some insight, just others' photos have helped me.
- Greg

[pjk170]

How long should the shaft be on an outboard that is to be mounted to the transom??