Another transom saver question :)

[Silvertip]

Re: Another transom saver question

The transom is supported from below by the bunks or rollers so it isn't the vertical forces that damage a transom. It's the rotational forces that you are trying to eliminate. Mounting the transom saver to the hull does absolutely nothing except increase the probability that damage will occur. If the boat is moving around on the trailer it is not secured -- thats why stern tie-downs should be used. With the boat secured, the transom saver attached to the trailer frame, everything is tied together and the trailer springs are absorbing the rotational shock loads.

 

[jtexas]

Re: Another transom saver question

paulie, I had an experience in which the trailer liberated itself from the tow vehicle at about 30 mph (don't ask :% ) - first impact, tongue jack wheel on pavement, caused the boat to shift forward on the trailer, bow stop and all, about six or eight inches. Had a box steel transom saver from 1978 on there, didn't bend or break; the tilt emergency relief valve allowed the engine to rise, just as if I'd hit an underwater obstruction at hi-speed (which I have done). No damage to boat, motor or trailer (except broke wires, and a slight twisting of the tongue which I compensated for by shimming up one side of the bow stop, but that's another story).

The aluminium transom saver I have now would, I believe, absorb the shock by breaking. Maybe I should carry a spare just in case that eventuality should eventuate. Anyway, bottom line, that experience (plus what silvertip said) is why I disagree with your assessment.

 

[paulie0735]

Re: Another transom saver question

I guess its all about your POV and thats what this forum is all about (I hope) d

 

[paulie0735]

Re: Another transom saver question

Each set up is different and with older boats without hydraulics it gets a lot harder to secure the engine and in some circumstances I can accept that there is little choice but to use them.
This is how I do it, I insert a block of soft wood into the motor mount than trim the engine down onto it. The soft wood block adsorbs the vibrations nicely. The boat is secured to the trailer with spring loaded fasteners again to allow for small movements and absorb vibrations caused by corrugations and the like.