Searching for help

[Margaret Lower]

Someone has fabricated a steel, heavy duty, plate at the back of the swim platform. We just bought the boat and would like to know what its intention may be. The R25 Classic was originally outfitted (I think) in British Columbia. See photo.

 

[Cutwater28GG]

looks like a kicker outboard motor mount

 

[Margaret Lower]

I agree .... But why would something so heavy duty be dead center and capable of supporting at least a 50 hp engine. So, I guess my question now is "what's the largest kicker feasible for this R25?"

 

[TexasEye]

Unless there is documentation to the modification it's experimental...These swim platforms seem to be healthy, I haven't had the chance to haul the boat and look it over really good. Weight, side loads when steering and vibrations can destroy modifications and hulls. Dead Center is good...

On my 25 that transom plate would drag the water

 

[Margaret Lower]

Ah ha.....there is an obvious watermark about three quarters of the way up the mount. I haven't had a chance to investigate a "drag", but would bet that is the case !! Thank you for the observation. Looks like I'll be removing same. Don't need it and it's in the way of a dinghy. Learn something new everyday....

 

[TexasEye]

I was going to put large noodles and wrap with hemp rope for a bumper, but it would have been in the water during cruise. With the Bimini and Livingston on the boat I lose 3 MPH and have to drop the tabs all the way down to get the bow where I want it.. I do store heavy gear in the Starboard Locker to offset for the Batteries and Generator. This doesn't help the Centre of Gravity issue...

 

[Halcyon]

Judging by the radius between the horizontal and vertical section of the mount, it is most likely powder coated aluminum rather than steel
To be sure just try a magnet on it

 

[NorthernFocus]

It's "interesting" what people come up with on boats. That is a pretty beefy looking bracket. Weird that someone would add something that obviously has to drag in the wake (with all the associated issues) when running.

.... But why would something so heavy duty be dead center and capable of supporting at least a 50 hp engine. So, I guess my question now is "what's the largest kicker feasible for this R25?"

Depends on what you call a kicker. A 9.9 will push it at hull speed on calm water and no head wind. But one thing about a semi displacement hull is that they don't really get "on step" like a true planing hull nor are they limited to hull speed like a full displacement design. So added horsepower will add speed. So it all depends on what one wants out of a "kicker". If a typical kicker is desired for emergency power and/or trolling, a properly wheeled 9.9 or 15hp is plenty. And that size engine certainly doesn't require such a bracket.

 

[Margaret Lower]

It IS aluminum. Eagle eye !!