Bob Bourget2
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Apr 25, 2011
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In the past MONTH, I have seen 3 {!} boats that came in for routine service that had DANGEROUSLY LOOSE mounting hardware. I mean, 1/8" GAP between the mounting surfaces. Motor loss, accident, personal property and or severe injury are all distinct possibilities from neglecting to check this on a regular basis.
When checking, please remember to NOT disturb the bolt itself, tighten or check on the NUT SIDE ONLY, because you don't want to break the sealers....and while you are there.....push, pull, shake, and tug your outboard in all directions to make sure she's "tight". On my race boats....you could NOT move the outboard anyway shape or form AT ALL. Production mounts, push-pull steering contribute to a LITTLE play, but that's all. Learn to know what is "right" and too loose on YOUR rig. Your life {and others} may depend on it. BTW.....they were two Tritons and one Stratos, two Mercs and one Johnson. Not that that makes any difference, just citing. :blink:
When checking, please remember to NOT disturb the bolt itself, tighten or check on the NUT SIDE ONLY, because you don't want to break the sealers....and while you are there.....push, pull, shake, and tug your outboard in all directions to make sure she's "tight". On my race boats....you could NOT move the outboard anyway shape or form AT ALL. Production mounts, push-pull steering contribute to a LITTLE play, but that's all. Learn to know what is "right" and too loose on YOUR rig. Your life {and others} may depend on it. BTW.....they were two Tritons and one Stratos, two Mercs and one Johnson. Not that that makes any difference, just citing. :blink: