Can someone tell me what this Thackery spring is supposed to do? Part of item 22 in this image. According to this image this spring is sitting on top of the tailstock sandwiched between two washers (which appears to be useless to me). I have seen other pictorials showing the spring actually going between the tailstock and transom plate. I have an 85' w/trs&bw, that I removed the rear engine mount (big metal plate going between the block and bellhousing), and am trying to mound directly to the transom plate. Everything seems to be aligned ok but that spring is making the bolt too short (imo)

https://marinepowerservice.com/Boati...&block_nbr=230

I had the same problem understanding the purpose. Read post #3 at the link below. This should help you. I put mine together this spring following the procedure outlined and everything went together fine.

http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/d...where-ugh.html

...Jim

Ok thanks, so I get the spring better now... it is only to make electrical contact between the engine and transom assembly.

ok this is not how it works... the large metal washer ID is larger than the bolt head. This large metal washer must get sandwiched between tailstock and transom plate.

Ok, NOW I think I got it lets try it irl

This is correct! Don't forget to torque everything to 100 ft.lbs

I had enough bolt length to put a flat washer between the nut and the gimbal pad so I did, I know the merc manual doesn't call for it but it won't hurt anything!

Thanks for your help Jim! I think I have her now! The weight is all on the spring, the big washer and felt washer(s) are free to spin with the bolt torqued down. sound ok?

I think your good!

Your welcome