Outboards Motor Clamps and....

PeterInSa · 02 January 2018, 22:56

Both Motors on our 1/2 Cabin boat have 2 clamps each and are also bolted to the boat.

Am very reluctant to bolt a small outboard (4 to 6HP) to my 2.7m SIB (wood floor) but just use the clamps. Will not be travelling long distances, so to me vibration should not loosen the clamps.

What do you do?

Thanks

Peter

beamishken · 02 January 2018, 23:05

Clamps will be fine just check there tight periodically as they can bite into the timber slightly

RichardinNZ · 03 January 2018, 00:12

You can add a padlock between them for added peace of mind too.

Mikefule · 03 January 2018, 04:59

Tighten the clamps, then check them. An outboard motor lock that covers the clamps, or a padlock linking the two clamps, will stop them undoing.

I've never had one come loose on my own boat yet, but many years ago I was on my brother in law's boat where it happened and we lost the engine.

Last Tango · 03 January 2018, 07:35

There'll will almost certainly be a hole in the bracket right next to one of the clamp screws. Put a short rope through that and tie it down to an eyelet on the inside of the transom.
If there isn't an eyelet I'd fit one.

willk · 03 January 2018, 07:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by PeterInSa

Will not be travelling long distances, so to me vibration should not loosen the clamps.

What do you do?

Check clamps after launching - often they need a turn extra. Always tie the bracket down to the transom plate - they mostly have a loop to lash to. I know a bloke who lost his 2.5hp...