Transom thickness islander 221

[7mm]

I am getting ready to reinstall the 2.5 L OMC engine and stern drive in a 1987 islander 221. I removed the engine and out drive to replace the transom. The old 1 1/2 inch transom had an additional 1/2 plywood spacer mounted around the key hole. So the thickness of the transom at the transom plate is 2 inches. Is this factory? Is it necessary? I have rebuilt the forward motor mount so I can slide the engine further back if need be.

 

[alldodge]

Yes, factory thickness is 2 to 2.25 inch

 

[7mm]

Wow where did you find that ? Thanks
I also want to rebuild the gimbal assembly. What should that include?

 

[alldodge]

The drawing is in the install manual
Which part of the gimbal assembly?

The upper steering pin, the bearing or other area?

 

[7mm]

I bought the boat as a barn find. It hasn't been in the water for about 8 years. I ran the engine and checked the compression before I took it out of the boat. I want to re build everything that needs to be done that would require pulling the engine again. I think it’s best to do it now. I am not opposed to bench testing parts but I would will replace parts if there is some doubt.