Any suggestions on a motor mount for the Ensign? This is what I removed from the boat and may just reuse it. I assume it is original to the boat - #375. I will likely go with a Honda 2.3 long shaft if that is an important consideration.

Thanks,

Rich

Hi Rich,

Interesting question. I have a bracket that I love and have had it for I am guessing 25 + years. It is a Spartan Marine bracket advertised as “Complete Outboard Motor Mount B127”. It attaches by a plate to the deck and hangs off the back of the boat so you do not have to put any holes in your transom. It is a little closer to the boat which makes it easier to get the engine on and off. The bracket is removable and I store it on the cabin floor when not in use so the boat looks great on the water and the bracket is not at risk of damage when the boat is in tight quarters at the dock or when being hauled and stored for the winter. For racers out there I am sure there have been one or two times where not having the bracket hanging off in tight quarters at marks a collision with the bracket was avoided. It is a pricey option and you do need a long shaft motor. But this bracket is in the same condition as when I bought it so it is a once and done upgrade.

I looked for a simpler and I would guess less expensive tripod type light duty engine bracket that I have seen many others use on an Ensign but surprisingly I could not locate one online. The ones I have seen of this type are stainless tubing mounted to 3 brackets permanently placed on the transom. Perhaps someone else on the forum would have a suggestion on if the tripod type is still available or if a used one is available somewhere.

Robin

Hi Robin,

Thank-you! This is very helpful. Is this what you are referring to:

https://www.spartanmarine.com/all-products/compete-outboard-motor-mount

It is a little pricey at $900 but I saw it elsewhere for over 1k.

It looks like a very good option.

Thanks!

Rich

Rich,

Yup, that is the one. I put a beefy backing plate under the deck for the bronze deck plate and carefully located it to make sure the bracket over hung just enough, with clearance. It ends up resting on the rub rail and does not seem to contact the deck.

Robin