Raise the transom?

[Eric B]

Thanks for the help flyingfrizzle! I met with the boatyard and the Suzuki tech collectively yesterday. The tech recommended a 30' transom right off the bat! They both agreed however not to use the 10" bracket as it was designed for a 2 stroke 150hp and felt the direct transom mount would be a better, more secure arrangement. Thanks again!

[Bushwacker]

Sounds like you're getting good advice! If you were to install a bracket, it's major benefit is the safety of a solid transom, so it makes no sense to install a bracket and leave the cutout. At one time the Potter/Hermco bracket offered a simple starboard transom closing option.