Transom notch measurements

[Locke N Load]

I have decided to ditch the idea of a bracket for my Seafari 20 rebuild and go with an outboard on the transom. It is a full transom at the moment still, well, the exterior skin, since it was an i/o and the interior skin and core have been removed. The two motors I am deciding between are the Merc 150 4S and Zuke 140. They are both just under 20" wide and when turned full makes the total width they could be around 33".

How wide should I make the cutout/notch? 33" to allow full tilt even if the motor is fully turned to one side? I want to minimize the notch width to maximize space between the motor well and hull sides for seating or coolers or whatever I decide. Already going with 27" from the keel. Now I just need to know how wide.

[Vezo, Part II]

I have my 1977/2014 Seafari here in SC, and ready for delivery. I can take measurements for you, as well as the one off custom splash well for ideas for you. I am the member who acquired the Hermco splash well mold prior to Don closing his doors. I gave it to member UncleBoo, Martin, and it is currently located in Eastern N. Carolina, if you wanted to incorporate it into your build. I don’t believe he has popped one yet, so the mold should be as mint as the day I gave it to him. Nice piece. I think you are spot on at 27” height.

Remember, when trailering, the outboard is naturally going to pitch to one side or the other, for the entire ride. Do not close in too tight. There is plenty of room for rear seating. See if I can load a couple of pics for you.

Michael.

First time I have ever had the photo orientation problem. Someone will fix it.

[Locke N Load]

That would be great. Thank you. Picture looks good and is just what I am thinking. I was also thinking the height on both sides of each seating area would be a little higher to be the same as the gunnel height. Lock in the hips and also prevent water from coming in even better. With a panel between the seats in front of the motor too. Bilge access could get tricky.

Lots of planning still to go, but I am getting motivated to really get going now I have settled on a vision for her.

[Vezo, Part II]

I did not think that the aft seats were raised. The raised splash well creates an arm rest, two cut down rod holders that create the padded back rest mount and a padded seat over the livewell. Kept the kids centered over the keel and away from the gunwales. All designed by the Previous Owner.

Friggin’ photo orientation...

Michael.
Neverforget0911@yahoo.com

[rcnight]

My 83 SF motorwell is 32" wide and 26" up from the keel. Just hung a Zuke 140 and there's plenty of room. Good luck.

[dirtwheelsfl]

26” wide is about what you can get away with. Steering ram needs 24”.

[TMala]

I went 27in high from the keel and 27in wide, plenty of room for a 2005 suzuki 4 stroke 140.

With a permatrim to aid in slow planing and engine mounted on the last hole (4 up I think) which means I could have put the transom at 30in if I wanted to, but my boat is funky and beats to it's own drum. 1969 20fter

[Scottman]

Locke N Load what measurements did you finally go with?
I am planning to go with 26 1/2 up from the keel, but I would like to know the width at the top and bottom of the notch.

Thanks

[Locke N Load]

Originally Posted by Scottman

Locke N Load what measurements did you finally go with?
I am planning to go with 26 1/2 up from the keel, but I would like to know the width at the top and bottom of the notch.

Thanks

I got a chance to get out there today and do some work. I measured and the top of the notch is 27.5" wide and the bottom is 25.5". Now I remember cutting at 28 and 26. Glass making up the difference. I am also 26.5" up from the keel.

On a positive note, she will now float. All holes and thru hulls have been patched or filled. All ground down and ready for fairing. That won't be for a while, but progress.

[Scottman]

Thank you, my boat on hold till spring for several reasons. I managed to get it fully disassembled as the deck is off, fish and storage lockers out and the inner liner is out (got to love that potter putty. My next decision point is going to be; 1 repair liner and reinstall. Or 2. Leave it out and core enough of the bow to perform the same function 3. Both.