Drilling engine mounting holes in new transom

JW-Tex · #1 01-10-2005, 08:41 AM

I am probably six weeks away from mounting my new engine but wanted to know how everyone drilled the mounting holes, template, jig, other? How did you make sure the hoels were put in the right place. Also any special tools you used or helpful tips. FYI, I am buying a new suzuki 140 and not sure if a template comes with the engine.

JW

Ed · #2 01-10-2005, 03:56 PM

Most dealers have a jig/template for them.

One word of advice...don't try and blast through with the biggest drill bit first. Start out really small and work your way in size about 3-4 times. Many riggers make the mistake of blasting through with the large bit only to cause spider cracks after the motor is tightened.

Also, you may want to use a drill guide to make sure you are drilling your holes straight. And finally, once your done drilling...coat the inside of the holes with some epoxy if the transom core is wooden.

Good luck.

Ed

warthog5 · #3 01-10-2005, 08:04 PM

My brother built this jig for me. [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

As you can see there is a drill bushing that get's moved from one hole to the next.

One of these is a good investment.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=41166

PipeDreamsMarine · #4 01-11-2005, 08:51 AM

woow.. All this stuff is hi-tech. Down here in the deep reaches of New Jersey, we jus put the motor on the stern center it up use a transfer punch to transfer the holes, move the motor and drill them holes. Just remember to go a 1/32 bigger to allow for sealant. I like them drill thingy's you boys got... I hear them banjos again...

RS · #5 01-11-2005, 08:51 AM

Putting a new motor on an old hull, I would not use a template. Get a lift and some help, and maybe some wood shims. Put some masking tape on the transom to mark the center, and maybe a few strips an equal distance to the sides to help with visual alignment.

Depending on your setup, someone can probably tell you where the ventilation plate needs to be in relation with the bottom of the hull. Your mounting holes should allow for some adjustment to that. Very important - be certain that the hole location on the inside of the transom will not compromise the splash well or access hatch (if any).

JW-Tex · #6 01-11-2005, 11:40 AM

I appreciate all the input, the transom has been raised from 20 to 25 inch and the outside skin was totally missing to begin with so I have no references at all. Will be investing in the drill guide, and wetting out the holes with epoxy as well.

Thanks