Cutting kicker bracket access hole.
 

Ready to install kicker bracket on old West Boat 18 footer. Stern has traditional configuration for main outboard but there are closed-in voids inboard on each side of the the engine well. Planning to cut hole in top of void on starboard side for access to inboard bracket connections. Hope to purchase a cap for hole from marine supply.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Purchase your access cover first and then cut...

http://www.marineparthub.com/12792_1...FQuraQodv6EA1A

Need 8 inch access
 

Thanks for the quick reply. I think I need an 8 inch access plate in order to insert a big enough back plate for the bracket. Priced a bracket at West Marine for $22.00. Concerned about the details. Always something that is unforeseen even though it looks straight forward.

Why a big plate.... A couple 4" strips of plywood and some fender washers should be plenty

i've had better luck with the gasketed plates over the screw threaded ones.

Also my initial thoughts
 

I had the same idea until I talked to a professional installer. Re: two 4 inch strips would work but for long term stability back plate should be one piece that matches or exceeds size of bracket plate. Thanks Smoke.

well I disagree with the professional here with a few conditions... the strength of the glass where it is being mounted is important to consider.... IMHO, IF the two strips to prevent fastener pull-out aren't sufficient then it's a VERY fine line between a bigger plate and the need to build more structure into the boat....

if bolting through 2" wood transom washers are enough.... 1/2" glass.. same.... 5/16" glass... strips... 1/8" glass..... much more structure needed...


Of course shape affects strength too..... this is all just my 0.02 so use it for what it's worth...

you are welcome and good luck w ur project.

Finished install
 

Just finished installing kicker bracket. Cutting access hole was uneventful but removing foam was not easy. The stuff was rigid and came out in small pieces. Was glad to see that the inside was dry as powder.

Lessons learned:

When drilling holes through the transom be sure to angle holes upward slightly to mirror the angle of the transom. I had to re-drill first hole because original hole did not allow bolt top to lay flat against bracket support.

Be sure to put adhesive/silicone inside of drilled hole; between bracket and hull; and on the underside of the outside nut. Unless you are a neat freak, leave residue after tightening bolts.

Be careful when installing cap on hole cut. Unless you install the rim evenly - don't allow a screw to warp the circle - the screw on lid will not fit properly.

Cables for the engine were running through the void and the foam. Fortunately they were encased in PVC. Unfortunately the PVC crowded access to bolts but I managed

These are the things that I was hoping to avoid when I first posted for advice. Hope this helps others.

G.