Hi all! I'm new to this but i have a question. I just recently bouught a 2003 23hp Vangaurd Longtail Mud Buddy and was wondering why the mount braket does not go over the transom. It looks like its suppose to be mounted on the back of the boat? It doesn't cup the transom like the outboard motors. So my question is, is this normal for these motors? The mount bracket on the motor is not the usual U shape, its just a flat piece. Any inputs would be helpful! And also i am putting it on a 1648 Tracker Grizzley Mod V boat, is that a good idea?

Never seen one like that.Post up a pic of it .

Sorry i meant, it goes over the transom but its not the usual U shape that would clamp on the transom, it just sits on top of the transom like a L shape plate that goes to the back of the transom. Will post up pics later.

That's the way it's supposed to be. Tiny lip over top of transom and the rest of the plate goes on the back of the transom (water side). I've had Godevils with transom mounting bolts you could tighten but my 25 hp mudbuddy is bolt thru only like yours.

When you "hang" it on back have two C clamps around to assist with holding it in place and shifting where you want it and then drill through and mount.

Ok thats what i kinda thought too. I guess they are made like that. So would it be safe for me to put a steel plate in from of the transom when i drill the screws in? Would that have more support to hold the screws.

Yes
Absolutely.

I used heavy aluminum plate, no rust.

Thanks alot guys!