71 SS Back Deck Removal on I/O?

[djmeaney]

I have started working on my 18' SS I/O. I'll be dropping in a new to me 3.0L Mercruiser and would really like to have the extra space by removing the back deck.

The braces under the deck have been removed and the cleats on port and starboard side are out, but I still can't get the deck off.

Before I go ape on it -- like I normally do -- figured that I was missing something.

What's the secret? The only still on the rear deck is the aluminum channel that holds the rub rail. Does that need to come? If so how.

Appreciate any help.

Dan

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: 71 SS Back Deck Removal on I/O?

The metal that runs across the top of the transom, just above the rubrail & the boat's name 'Time Out':

You can probably shorten it, and make the doghouse over the motor longer to make up the difference over it. That'd allow a bit more room beside the engine, perhaps push a jump seat in beside the motor, but I don't think I'd remove it.

Posting a pix of what your describing is usually helpful.

 

[djmeaney]

Re: 71 SS Back Deck Removal on I/O?

Jbcurt00,

Thanks for the response.

I fiannly figured out that I need to remove the rubrail on either side to get access to a couple of screws that hold the aluminum channel to the boat. Once those screws were loose I could drill out the rivets that held the read deck to the boat.

It is just a temporary removal. It will be reinstalled once the new motor has been installed.

The gimbal is now off. Need to buy a new transom gasket and get to work installing the new gimbal and motor.

 

[djmeaney]

Re: 71 SS Back Deck Removal on I/O?

Hey JB,

Just noticed the photo you attached to your message of my boat -- I mean that very same one. "Time Out" was the name it had two owners ago. The guy I bought it from only owned for a couple of months before selling to me with a blown motor.