DIY static outboard bracket

[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by peiserma

I understand the sentiment, but I am an (electronics) engineer working in the nuclear power industry. My design comfort level starts in the 30% to 50% margin range, and if I can talk people into a more robust solution, I will. Then I add a backup system. Actually, we like four backup systems for anything really critical.

It may work just fine for a long time. I understand perfectly well that T&H designed in margin, but I could never sleep well at night using something beyond rated capacity. Fukushima got hit by almost 10x worse than it was designed for, which has no bearing on this topic, but it does reinforce the idea that safety can never have enough margin.

While I appreciate the viewpoint, I'd never be comfortable with it

Hard to disagree with that, especially since I worked as a mechanical engineer/facilities mgr for the company that brought you 3 Mile Island and owns Forked River Nuke Facility. But you have to remember that we're talking compressive strength here, and for 6061 extruded aluminum angle it's 45,000. Since most of your forces are going to be compressive (The engine pushing against the angle which in turn pushes against the stern of the boat) you're going to have to go some to convince me that it's not safe to up the size of the engine. It's a long stretch from a nuke facility to an outboard bracket. Just sayin...

And yes, for the money, I would buy that mechanical jack plate. You can see the quality that went into the design and machining of it. Nicely rounded corners, all edges broken, etc. Def a piece of quality workmanship.

[peiserma]

Got the new-to-me motor on the boat today. Not rigged yet. With the motor in the highest position, I think its pretty close to where it needs to be. Vance customer service answered my question within an hour or so. Actually Mr. Vance did (small shop). I get 1.5" minimum, plus and additional 4" of adjustable "up". So the jack plate will raise the motor between 1.5" and 5.5" I think it will work just fine.

I am ordering the JPL 4300 when they open up tomorrow. Good price, looks like a good product, responsive customer service, made in USA by a small business. They get my money and a plug on this site.

Will post pics when i get it and also when installed on the boat.

Thank you all so much for your replies to my questions.

[bradford]

Good to hear about the responsive customer service. Worth it's weight in gold these days.

Gonna post their site to the links section for the next guy who needs them.

[peiserma]

Here are the promised pictures of the bracket and installed on the boat. I put the motor on the highest holes and set the jackplate 0.5" up. That puts the ventilation plate about 0.5" above the keel. I can move it up another 3.5" if needed.