Can I remove one motor mount temporarily?

[ernst]

There is crack in the fiberglass under one of my motor mounts. The fiberglass is pretty thin, I think it is there to protect the encased wood stringer, and for cosmetic reasons (was probably easier for the factory to slap on a layer of fiberglass and spray on gelcoat than to paint the engine compartment). The wood is, fortunately, rock-solid, at least as far as I can tell after trying to poke into it with a screwdriver. There is absolutely no rot, nor movement of the motor when running. So, I think I can repair this satisfactorily by grinding in a bevel and laying some glass in epoxy.

Only issue is, the motor mount is in the way. Obviously, I don't want to remove the motor for this job. Can I remove the motor mount, fix the problem, and put it back? Would I need to support the motor during the process?

Thanks!

[joe_db]

Probably. The other three should hold it. Don't RUN IT that way though
Many mounts cannot be removed that way though, the motor would trap them.

[ernst]

Originally Posted by joe_db

Probably. The other three should hold it. Don't RUN IT that way though
Many mounts cannot be removed that way though, the motor would trap them.

Thank you! I do not plan to run the motor three-legged

I am concerned about the second point you raise, too. I don't know if I can tilt the mount a little to get it out from under the motor, once I remove the two mounting bolts at the base and the nut on top. It would only need maybe 3/8".

If not: Is it possible to tilt the motor instead, using the elasticity in the remaining three mounts? Or should I loosen up the mount on the other side and jack up the motor a little with a bottle jack? I would much prefer not to touch the other two mounts since they are really hard to access...

[joe_db]

Loosen all 4. If you don't, you are trying to bend the bolts and mounts. Also if is like mine you really want to lift straight up, not just jack one end up. Don't forget to disconnect the prop shaft first!

[ernst]

Originally Posted by joe_db

Loosen all 4. If you don't, you are trying to bend the bolts and mounts. Also if is like mine you really want to lift straight up, not just jack one end up. Don't forget to disconnect the prop shaft first!

That means doing a full realignment procedure, correct?

[ndutton]

Originally Posted by ernst

That means doing a full realignment procedure, correct?

Yes and it's a good skill to learn anyway. I think after you've done it you'll wonder what all the fuss was about much like replacing the stuffing box flax with the boat in the water. There's a bunch of anxiety leading up to it but once done it was no big deal.