1. Can I pm u my questions during my process?
sure, no problem. Or, keep it in forum (others trying same thing may appreciate it).
2. What did u use for backer underneath?
The cleat had a piece of wood glassed-in that the screws ran through and were then bolted. I basically did the same thing.
I used a couple pieces of lumber that I cut down to size and pre-drilled (maybe a quick coat of shellac, varnish, or primer to seal the wood), then ran the bolts and lock nuts through and tightened it down. I don't remember if I used liquid nails or not to secure the wood to the boat, but I don't think so.
3. Approx. how long were your standoffs?
I bought an assortment of sizes of SS Stand-offs from McMaster-Carr (for those that are not able to machine their own). I think they ranged from 1 to 3" I leveled the quick-release platform and then measured the height. Because it was not a flat surface the stand-offs were all different heights, and I compensated with SS washers and fender washers where they touched the boat.
4. Hard to see from pics did your motor rest on the seats?
Diagonally so it rested on handrail on opposite side. I included some new pics, but don't have any with motor on, sorry.
5. What kind of boat is that?
Searay BR 19 (Bowrider - 1987)
6. Looks like it would work GREAT! How did it work?
Thanks! Yes, it worked with no problems. Trolling was perfect, (except I could have used a more powerful motor, boat was heavy) but actually that was ok. I had it at full speed when stowed, and no issues with that either. The head of the motor was tied to the hand rail with a velcro strap when not being used, which kept it pretty snug and did not bounce much.
7. Did it need to be mounted so high...off the gunwhale?
Yes, when i pulled the trolling motor in to store, it sat flush/level along the gunwale.
9. Where did u put the batteries?
If you look at the picture with the dealt polisher, you can see the corner of the battery box in the photo. That is exactly where is went.
The bowrider has a seating and there is an anchor tucked under the very front. I permanently mounted a Battery Box Strap in front next to anchor storage. In other words it sat just to the right of, and behind, the trolling motor (against the flat edge- seen in picture). I also made a removable platform using carpeted plywood, where I could add/remove the cushions and have a fishing platform or seating. the person fishing in front could reach the motor and battery while sitting.
10. Any suggestions to someone who is going to this now...such as myself?
take your time. Not difficult. I didn't like drilling holes in the boat, so that took the longest time to make absolutely sure it was the correct location.
A few thoughts on location: I wanted it to drop to the water so that it did not hit side of boat, I also had to be careful that it did not interfere with the snap-on cover on my boat, and wanted it to rest against the handrail on the opposite side so that it would travel nicely. As AllDodge mentioned, I also did not want it to interfere with lights in front either. After all of those considerations, there were really only a few places it could actually be located.
11. Anything u would do differently?
no, not really.
12. How long is your motor shaft?
I don't remember some of the details. I think it was 48" , because it was a long way to the water.
