Motor bracing for towing

[Craig]

For short trips such as from home to the nearest launching ramp, I rely on the metal brace (bracket) that holds the outboard in a raised position and just put a rope around the outboard leg to hold it tight to limit any movement.

I am concerned that for longer trips (Albany, Carnarvon) there is the chance that the built in metal brace may not be strong enough and a more substantial method of bracing the outboard is required. I am thinking of constructing a wooden block that will fit between the outboard leg and the transom and that will hold the outboard in the raised position.

The motor in question is a 30hp 4 stroke so there is a fairly substantial weight involved.

What methods do others use or are my concerns unfounded?


cheers

Craig

[browndog]

Yeah cobber thats right... most of the so called metal brackets or so called travel locks on Yamaha arent for that....The main purpose is for servicing use...So the motor can stay locked up while the mechanic works ont he trim or wot ever..
The block of wood is the simplest and cheapest way or travelling long distances with it..over shorter distances Yamaha say to leave the motor in the lower postion...with enough clearence from bumpy roads and stuff like that..
Regards
Mark

[Craig]

Thanks for the replies.

Looks like I spend this weekend constructing something suitable for the trip to Carnarvon - Yah Hoo!!

Can hardly wait.

cheers

Craig

[Marc_s]

You are right about the need for an outboard bracket when travelling, although while a wooden block may be the cheapest option you might be fixing one problem but causing another and may still cause damage to your outboard. Your better off getting a motor support bracket than has a built in spring (similar to a shock adsorbed on your car). A wooden block will just transfer all the pressure from the road to the outboard putting strain on the transom and trim. They're inexpensive (around the $50 mark) and well worth it if you value your investments!