Upcoming Transom Redo

[Capt Terry]

Thanks Moose, Mitch and DonV for your suggestions-
Right now I am leaning towards increasing the transom from 20” to 22” Why 22” and not 25”? In my 42 years of use, with a Hermco splashwell, and particularly only lake-usage now, the 20” has served me quite well. I only anchor from the bow and keep the stern towards the beach. I have about 2” of clearance now from the ETEC to the transom. A 22” transom with the splashwell drain plug installed, would provide more margin when the heavies are sitting in the stern at anchor. With 22” I can also keep my mechanical steering and avoid a 5” ETEC driveshaft extension.
The next step is building or locating an engine stand for the 418# ETEC.