Did it always have the bracket? If not, how do you like it? Has it changed the handling/ performance at all? does it porpoise with out using the trim tabs?

 

Not many people notice that. I always read never put a bracket on a 17. Nobody had really done it, and those that said not to could only speculate why it was a bad idea. I added trim tabs before the transom job and that was the single best modification.
It does not seem to porpoise any more or any less than it did before. Feet don't seem to get any wetter. Waves don't crash over the transom like before. But I guess it does not self-bail anymore either. Still has the scuppers in the stock location.

 

I'm in the process of a stringers, transom, floor, 1/2 tower rebuild of my 16'. I added a bracket to the last aqua sport I rebuilt and it was totally worth it. I was debating on making a bracket to free up some extra room in the back of this little boat, but like you said lack of good info/ speculation was keeping me from starting a smaller bracket like yours.

I think you've just given me the info necessary to scrap the idea of a mini bracket on my application. Self bailing is a must for this set up, as it will be primarily used for off shore solo trips. carb'd 150, looking for top speed at +55, and cruise at 45. This will be a grocery getter. Make that 20 mile run in a half hour on a good day, pull em up and ride it in before lunch. I appreciate it. Thanks

 

How expensive was it to change or did you do it your self. That is the main reason in sold my 19' Mako. I HATED the self/bailing hull open transom.


I keep looking at a few Formula boats, i have always liked those.

 

It was a job. But the old transom was not bad so it was more like an addition. You would have to see it up close. It is super stout.
The short transom is a great idea if you stuff the bow and are able to power out allowing the water to exit. I never stuffed the bow or even came close. Many times a wave would come over the old transom and into the boat. Not anymore.

I have been thinking about flats boat for years.... Sure would like to pick up a used Egret. But then I would have to sell the 17 at a considerable loss just to make room.

 

my 20ft pro-Line. Good boat for what I use it for, fishing and island hopping.





this is CapriMikes boat...

 

that Hewes is a nice boat man! Those Etec's are the king of the 2cyl world now, lol