I have an inboard/outboard on my boat. Is it necessary to use a transom saver? Thank you in advance.?

Question

I've seen they're needed for outboards, but what about I/O's? Distance from my outboard to the roller is only 18 inches - do they make transom savers that short? I've searched all over and can't find this info so any info would be appreciated.

Answer 1

I think your best bet would be to contact a boat dealer. An I/O doesn't put the weight on the transom that an outboard does.

Answer 2

No, not necessary. Couldn't hurt, but not necessary.

I/O's carry the weight of the outdrive differently, the outdrive is bolted to the engine, which is bolted to the stringers in the hull. So little weight is on transom.  Therefore, you won't see them bouncing on the transom the way you do with O/B's.

Answer 3

No, you don't use a transom saver on inboard/outboards.  It however doesn't hurt to put "chocks" on the hydraulic cylinders to protect the sterndrive when travelling.

Chocks are basically heavy duty plastic sticks that go over the exposed hydraulic shaft and at the end fits under the hydraulic mount on the sterndrive.  I have them on my I/O.   You raise your trim high as it will go when boat is on trailer, stick the chocks on, then lower it just enough for the plastic to be snug on both sides.

If for some reason the trim failed, I could open both hydraulic lines at the dock at the trim pump (WHILE someone is holding the sterndrive), then lift the sterndrive manually and put the chocks in, lower it onto the chocks, and finally put the hydraulic lines back on.   This will hold it securely in place until I can the issue repaired.