'97 - Boom clamp clearance to the motor box question

[SilentSeven]

Hi, 1997 model & boat is new to me. Just picked up a used ECI boom and was surprised to see how close the motor box is to the pylon - effectively no room for the clamp without killing the vinyl on the motor box. As I looked at the motor box mount to the rear decking, it almost looks like the whole unit has scooted forward a bit. There is some type of bracket that appears to limit forward motion and while they look intact, it's possible they might be bent a bit. With the rear seat out, as a look at the decking back by the gas tank, there is a gap in the center section relative to the side decking - again making me think the motor box may be too far forward. So - here's the question - how much clearance should there be between the motor box and the pylon? I would expect enough to fit in a basic boom clamp and lift the box without killing the upholstery. Does is sound like my engine box / decking has somehow scooted forward a bit? thx!

[MTRBTR]

I have a 97 sport. It is pretty close. I don't think I could fit the boom clamp either.

[SilentSeven]

Wow. Hard to imagine they left no space - what an omission! Hoping others weigh in here..may move to the main forum. There has to a solution - I am hardly the first person who has thought to put a boom a this year of boat!

[BrennanK]

I have a Barefoot International straight boom and I have never had an issue. Yes it touches the vinyl on the motor box and you have to take the clamp on and off to open the engine. My boom clamp is all rounded over though so as long as you install it carefully you are all good. I was more worried about scratching my pylon then I was about damaging the vinyl.

I can slide mine down far enough to the point that the boom is too high to use. If it was warm enough to get the boat out I would get you some pictures. (that might be another 6 weeks)

[SilentSeven]

I have a Barefoot International straight boom and I have never had an issue.

Herein may be the difference - I have a curved boom.

[SilentSeven]

Looked again. Straight boom - looots of clearance at the motor box. Curved boom, noooo clearance at the motor box. Nuts.

[TRBenj]

I assume the difference is that you mount the clamp lower with the curved boom? I'd move the rear panel back some if you have clearance to the pulleys in front.

Straight booms tend to work better on pre-200 CC direct drives.

[SilentSeven]

I'd move the rear panel back some if you have clearance to the pulleys in front.

That's basically the plan - see if I can scoot the motor box back about 3/4" and maybe put a little plastic guard in place to protect the vinyl. Didn't think to check this before I bought the (used) boom - DOH!!

[wakebrd21]

I have a 97 sport and the engine box is very close. I believe about half way down the boom is actually touches the engine box.
Would Nautique care if you can fit a boom? I would think not since I thought I heard that using a boom will void the warranty of the boat.

[DanielC]

It is close. Make sure the pylon is not bent back. Quick fix, a plastic tupperware lid, or something similar.

[hondaprlud]

I had a straight boom on my 96 sport. IIRC it was super close but didn't rub. Doesn't the doghouse have an indentation for the pylon?

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[Mikeski]

I just wrap a towel around the clamp so it doesn't damage the upholstery. Don't leave the clamp on long term.


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[SilentSeven]

OK - some field experience now in hand.

The clamp sits low enough to be next to the carpet, not the vinyl. This is good. I can open the motor box if I use the clamshell feature and just open the top. Net is - bent boom works with the boat. A straight boom would be better but this works.

[hondaprlud]

Cool glad to hear

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