Quote:
Originally Posted by Rufneck
McGilli, why are the Hermco brackets better than Armstrong? I see they are fiberglass. Aren't the Armstrong brackets aluminum? Are they lighter or more durable or less expensive than the Armstrong? I am just now starting to explore the bracket option so any info you have would be appreciated.
Thanks to the rest of you for the info. I will load you guys up with pictures once I get the deal done.
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I don't know if they are better or not. That's kind of subjective. Hermco brackets are favored among SeaCraft owners for their excellent craftsmanship, their custom fit to the SeaCraft hull and if I'm not mistaken, Don has been involved with Bill Potter (the guy who introduced the SeaCraft 23) in several fiberglass designs including These brackets and SeaMark pilot houses. They are, as you know, fiberglass - meaning one less thing to corrode. Stainless bolts on aluminum structures don't fare so well in a salty bath once the make contact and are hit by stray current...
Hermco brackets offer superior flotation qualities. This is very useful as modern 140 zukes are about 100 lbs heavier than the the old OMC and Merc 140s of yesteryear. I believe Hermco brackets are designed to sit a little lower on the transom offering more flotation, in addition to having a larger cavity.
I don't know what the going rate is on these brackets but I'm sure they are comparable in price. I don't know their relative weights. As far as shipping goes, both companies are geographically pretty close to one another one being in Jensen Beach FL and the other in Stuart FL.
I only recommend that you talk to Don at Hermco about your needs. I think you'll find his attention to details about your SeaCraft project is 2nd to none. And the quality is well represented by many on this forum who have ante'd up for Hermco brackets.
Good luck with your purchase, the Sceptre 23' is a great choice.
Look forward to seeing pics your new boat should your deal come to be.