Bracket Remodel Questions

[CJg8r]

Looking for some input here. I had the lower unit let go on the yamaha 250 a couple of weeks ago. Picked up a semi matching clean engine last week for next to nothing with a knocking powerhead but the catch is that it is a 30" and I have a 25" motor. Currently my boat ('76 23' Sceptre) has a 24" deep fiberglass non-flotation bracket on it installed by the previous owner. As it is currently, the cavitation plate of the 25" motor sits within 1/2" of the bottom of the keel. I know that this is not ideal and should probably be 2-3" higher but have never wanted open up that can of worms until now. I am looking to transfer my powerhead onto the new to me 30" engine which is easy enough. My question to all of glass gurus of the site is can I modify the fiberglass bracket I have now to raise the motor 7" provide a swim platform and turn it into a flotation chamber or should I look for a new bracket. Ideally I would like not to drill the transom for a different bracket nor can I shell out $2600+ for a new bracket. Currently I have more time than money as I am a stay at home dad. My concerns with modifying the current bracket are that it will be structurally sound and that at the end of the day doesn't cost as much as picking up a decent used bracket.

Thanks,

Matt

[hermco]

Just add to the existing bracket.

[DonV]

Looks like one of those old Dusky brackets from decades ago.

[flyingfrizzle]

It can be done, How I know? I done one my self. Here is the thread to a step by step way to make it happen. The twin outboard models will yeld a lot of floation if dropped down 2" from the hull bottom. Yours looks to be cut down in the rear for shorter motors so I don't think you will have enough mounting tab to get it low enough with out some additional work. I will tell you this tho, after doing one I will say you may be better off doing one from scratch. The dusky brackets are balsa cored but still have 3/8" of glass on each side of that. It will turn out to be a heavy piece. I built my swimplatform with foam and did it light as possible and it was still like 170-180# if I remember right.

http://www.classicseacraft.com/commu...ad.php?t=25504

[CJg8r]

Thanks for the replies. I think I'm going to give it a try. I haven't glassed since the '90s when i helped my friend rebuild a skiff but that was a web finish job. Subsequently that same friend has rebuilt an Aquasport 22-2 from the stringers up to Gause built quality and is going to give me a hand. It's only taken him 3 years but he's finally at the rigging stage. He's assured me that this will only take half that amount of time.

Thanks

Matt