Notice:
The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.
I'm about to buy a new motor, and of course it'll be a 4-stroke and heavier than the one that's on my boat, so I've been looking into buying a new mounting bracket. What I've found is that the two primary manufacturers (Garelick and MarineTech/Panther) are distinguishing between brackets for 2-stroke motors and for 4-stroke motors. The stainless tubing style we're all used to has been replaced by models constructed of SS sheetmetal or aluminum extrusions (less labor to build). The lighter SS models are NOT FOR USE WITH 4-STROKE MOTORS, even though they are rated to be able to handle the weight and power (ie. 95 lb. 9.8 hp motors). They require us to buy the more expensive units made of aluminum. I have two questions:
a.) Has anyone experienced any problems with the SS tubing models since switching to 4S motors (other than the weight issue)?
b.) Is anyone aware of problems experienced by the industry that warrant this distinction?
The trouble with a destination - any destination, really - is that it interrupts The Journey.
Lee Panza SR/SK #2134 San Francisco Bay (Brisbane, CA)
With the 95 lb. 9.8hp 4S motor, you will need the 3 spring SS tube model that CD sells, or an equivalent. You don't want the type mount that was on some of the older models that has the 2 support bars very close together. I have a Fulton, heavy duty aluminum frame, model 1810. It has plenty of strength, rated for up to 30 hp, but it also needs a 1" spacer to push it out far enough for the handle to clear the rubrail in the full up position. Don't consider the Fulton model 1820, the travel is too short, only 9" vs the 1810's 14". If you have the 2 spring model with SS tubular arms and flat side bars, I think it might be possible to send it to the mfgr to have a 3rd spring added and the side bars reinforced, if the rest of the mount is in good shape. Edit: corrected Fulton model #'s, had an extra zero in them.
I think CD's upgraded Garhauer bracket is a good investment. You get a poly mounting board with a stainless steel backer (with a lip for security), improved bushings, and whatever spring combination the engine needs. The bolt pattern is the same as the original, if your bracket is tubular stainless steel, so no new holes should be needed.
I think (don't rely on me here) that buyers of the Tohatsu/Nissan 9.8 4-stroke have found three springs to be correct, while those with the heavier Hondas, Yamahas, and Mercury Bigfoots need four springs. Too much spring power means you need to step on the motor to get it down, and it's harder to release to raise. CD can also provide some guidance. I bought the Fulton 1810, but that wouldn't be my choice in the current environment.
I purchased the Garelick 71090 mount for my c25 and have been very satisfied with the unit. I put the Tohatsu 9.8 on the mount and found the travel and easy of use great. I measured the travel on my old mount and then installed the new one. I have a bit more travel at the lowest setting and this helps keep the motor, extra long shaft, in the water when I need a bit more depth. It installed easily.
Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ. The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.