Repower

[AquasportTiger]

Hello.  I have a 19-6 1974 Aquasport CC that my grandfather bought new, gave to my dad, and now passed to me.  The original 85 Johnson finally gave up and I am repowering.  Amazingly the transom seems to be in excellent condition (i.e. No apparent rot).  I would not typically expect this but has anyone had any issues with transom rot?  Also, the original engine has been chunked.  I think this boat needs a 20" shaft length but i wanted to make sure before i shelled out a bucket on the wrong engine.

[RickK]

Welcome aboard AquasportTiger  :!:  :!:
Sounds like your boat should stay in the family forever - that would be cool.  If you take care of her, there is no reason why the boat won't last many more generations. 8)
I don't think a solid transom is all that uncommon, mine is still original too and when I mounted the PowerPole the wood came out dry on the drill.  When you scan through the posts here you'd seem to think that all transoms are rotten though. I think if a boat 1) lives on a trailer most of it's life instead of on a mooring, that makes a difference and 2) of course if someone drills into the transom on the outside to mount something and doesn't seal the hole properly, that's where the rot starts.
The Osprey line does have a 20" transom.
Again, welcome aboard.

[Towerboat1]

Remember that these boats were designed for 85 or so horsepower. The reason some of the transoms went bad was due to mega motors like 200 or above. Iwould stay at 150 hp or less to save your transom. Just my opinion. hope it helps! CR

[Pinchin' Crab]

I have a 1979 19'6" with the original transom and a 2003 Suzuki 140 four stroke.  I think it is a perfect combination and have had no problems thusfar.  The boat had the original 140 Johnson on it before the new Suzuki went on, so the transom had never been drilled.  I suspect that is why it is still solid.

[Classic]

Think ahead to efficiency and weight. Especially with gas going to $10/gallon.  A big engine will just lower the freeboard and your low cut-out transom doesn't have much to spare. You will still be taking Dad and grandchildren out to enjoy a ride while the others are docked trying to sell those big engines. Running a shallow boat at 40+MPH is for racers. Our 90hp Yamaha pushes the 22-2 Flatback (same weight) just fine. A 115 Merc or ETEC would also be a good match.
Enjoy your family heirloom classic with the beautiful lines.
You also win the coolest gramps award.

[AquasportTiger]

I decided to go with a 2-stroke 115 Yamaha.  A little more power but shouldn't over power.  Now for the fun part.....rigging.