What kind of engine support do you recommend for mercs? I've been looking at the Pro Rule transom support, and Moto Stop engine support. Also looked at SwiveEze lock and stow.
What kind of engine support do you recommend for mercs? I've been looking at the Pro Rule transom support, and Moto Stop engine support. Also looked at SwiveEze lock and stow.
They all do a job. Most of it is your choice. I have used several. I used the lock and stow on smooth roads. But on dirt roads where there is a lot of bouncing I would opt for one that hooks to the trailer. There may be people who disagree but I have never crack a transom yet and have been doing this for over 30 years.
good luck
I personally prefer the Lock-n-Stow, OR the "sleeve type" units that fit over the smaller trim rams.
If using the sleeve-type, you'll need TWO of them (don't use just one, as it can weaken and fail the upper trim ram cross-pin bushings).
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
Mercury Parts, Mercury Outboards, Smartcraft & Accessories, Injector Service, TDR Reeds- BBC Sponsor
I had been using the sleeve type for several years, but I saw a post in here from Don with the same info. he just gave you. That got me concerned about just using one. I was looking at buying another, but got to thinking that I would have three things to keep up with ( 2 sleeves and steering clips). After doing a lot of research, I came across the Lock-n-Haul. It is the only in-line load distribution motor toter on the market. It is small and lightweight and will eliminate any movement of your motor. I have been using it on my ProXS for a year and love it.
Region 4 Director
VA Bass Chapter Federation (TBF)
President
Star City Bassmasters
Lock-n-Stow for me. Going on three years and love it.
x2 on the Lock-n-Haul.
I prefer the Lock-n-Haul light weight and easy to use. lots of options but none are as versitle or as efficent as the Lock-n-Haul
Frank Ramsey
http://nmbassfishing.com
Am I missing something? I thought the point of a transom saver was to help support the motor through more than just the transom (ie through the trailer). It seems like the lock-n-haul and sleeves just take stress off the trim/tilt system. Or do you use these things in conjunction with a traditional motor to trailer unit?
Sorry. Still a beginner but always amazed at how strong a transom must be to support these motors.
There's a mixed school of thought on this. One commonly missed item is that the boat DOES move while on the trailer. So one COULD argue that it's possible that a unit from the trailer to the engine actually causes more harm than good.
On the other hand, an argument can be made that the sleeves, lock-n-stow, and various other "triangulated" supports remove the "bouncing" tendency of the engine, thus removing tremendous strain from the transom.
Truth be told.... it really doesn't matter which one you choose, if your boat is hauled through pot-holes and over speed bumps at high rates of speed.
Something's going to break eventually.... unless reasonable care and caution is taken.
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
Mercury Parts, Mercury Outboards, Smartcraft & Accessories, Injector Service, TDR Reeds- BBC Sponsor
I recently swithched to a Moto-Stop from a transom saver and there is a big difference to ME in hauling. Much smoother and not near as bouncy.
I ended up ordering a lock-n-haul. Just got it today. Going to try it tomorrow when I pick up the boat from the shop.
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