[GroveGuy]

Congrats on the purchase!

Assuming that you may have to rebuild a 30 year old transom and have not yet picked out an engine, I really can't see the benefit of not raising from 20" to 25". I nursed along my original 20" 1969 transom with a jack plate as long as I could and since the rebuild have no regrets having the extra 5". Now I have fewer worries of too many people crowding the stern or taking a wave when backing down.

Not sure what size boat you have but I think the bracket issue is a matter of personal choice - hopefully others will chime in. I considered it but thought it might negatively affect the performance of a 20SF. I could not be happier with my setup of a 130HP 2S Yam on my 25" transom.

Best of luck with your decision.