Advice for pod/bracket 250ccp

[CNYguy]

Hey guys, doing a rebuild on a 250ccp and I want to eliminate that awkward splashwell in front of the O/B and increase deck space. Id like to go to a full width pod with a swim platform. Has anyone done a custom pod/bracket? What kind of bracing is required, could I tie into the floor where I want to cut out and flatten the splashwell?

[mshugg]

There are quite a few examples of enclosed transoms with brackets in the rebuild posts on this site.  I enclosed the transom on my 200 CCP, and I’ll be bolting on an Armstrong bracket this weekend. 

There seem to be a few different approaches taken, usually as part of a transom rebuild. I think that most common approach is to tie the stringers into the transom with the addition of knees/gussets that help to distribute engine load.  Another approach is to extend the deck all the way back to the transom.  Your bracket manufacturer will likely have recommendations on minimum transom thickness too.  My Armstrong specified a minimum of 2” for up to 200 HP.

As I said, I went with an Armstrong bracket.  So did Blue Agave on his 196 Osprey.  A lot of 222 Ospreys go with a Porta Bracket, for advantages in shallow running (probably not as big a thing on a CCP). 

Somewhere on this site someone took on the task of designing and building their own bracket.  I can’t find the thread right now, but as I recall, the thread kind of trailed off during bracket build.  There are examples on Classic Seacraft and The Hull Truth of others who designed and made their own bracket, or even extended the stringers and running surface of their boats.  Based on the amount of time rebuilds take, I’d be happy to spend the money on an Armstrong or other commercial bracket.

[CNYguy]

My plan is to build the bracket myself, id like to extend the deck and do a half height closed transom to allow an easy step over to the motor.  I like the Armstrong's but id rather build it than buy it.

[mshugg]

There are many examples out there.  Good luck with your project.  Be sure and start a build thread here, so we can follow along with your adventure.

[wingtime]

Having worked on Blue Agave boat I will tell you you want as wide as a flotation chamber as possible. Since the CCP is an offshore rig I'd personally go for a full transom with a tuna door.

[CNYguy]

Appreciate the responses, I love the idea of a tuna door however I wont be catching any tuna. this boat is being built for trolling the finger lakes and lake ontario. I wont be taking on any off shore waves.
I like the full width pods for the swim deck area. I'd like a relatively easy access in and out of the back while fishing.
I've got to get the current power off and figure out the best flow on the back. I'm still up in the air on power. Ive considered twins but I think a single 250 or 300 would be more than enough for what I want to do.

[wingtime]

By tuna door what I really mean is a transom door. Makes it much easier to get in and out of the boat. Especially for swimming, snorkeling etc.