older fiberglass boat

Question
Hi Ron

I have a early to late 60's Fiberglass V style bottom boat. It's a fairly deep V, transom and hull seem solid never had it properly inspected but have gone over it well and checked any spots that may take on moisture or where fiberglass may pocket...all seems good and have had it out several times at 25 to 30 mph on rough water.
my question is.....all I can get from vin tag is that it is a 15 foot Sport Ray, I now have an older Lark VII 40hp on it that has left me stranded several times now. I also have a Johnson Loop Charged 55 hp in great running and cosmetic shape late 60's early 70's. Will this boat handle a motor that big? Old motor only weighed about 150lbs the Johnson will go a good 200 plus lbs. Also i will have to drill transom hole to accommodate the Johnson.

Answer
Hi Steve...Thank you for selecting the undersigned to reply to your question.

Before experimenting with the 55hp motor, I highly recommend you consult a qualified and reliable marine surveyor to determine whether the boat will be over-powered and to check the boat over with a moisture meter, especially the transom and stringers.

Prior to permanent installation of the eng., I suggest you temporarily mount it on the tramsom without drilling any holes just to see how the weight will affect the boat while sitting in the water.

You'll need to ensure that when the engine is permanently mounted the cavitation plate will be flush with the bottom of the hull before drilling the mounting holes. I also recommend you glue a square block of oak to both sides of the transom hole, and don't forget to seal the circumference of the hole with silicone so as to avoid moisture seeping into the centre core of the transom.

Safe Boating
Ron