[ocuyler]

Dink,

First, I would consider what the overall height will be AFTER it's installed to be sure it fits where it needs to. I've seen them both ways. I, personally, like to keep the overall height of the boat as low as possible.

I think you have to split the difference of the angle of when you are underway and drifting/off plane. You may be able to not use a strut and shim the back bolts with plastic spacers.