I/O vs outboard hull for project

[TBubrick]

Considering a project 23 sceptre or tsunami configuration. I anticipate a rather major rebuild. Today I spoke with a marine shop here and was advised not to consider an I/O hull due to the weight distribution and the associated challenges of putting an outboard on a bracket. It seems as I casually look on Craigslist there are many more I/O hulls at reasonable prices than outboard versions.

I'd assumed the transom would be rebuilt and closed in either way, so heck...the deck rebuilt, new fuel tanks, etc.

Are there differences in the weight distribution of the hull based on the power configuration?

My question is this challenge a small one or a large one. The owner said the balancing would be more challenging.

I hope this question is not too simple minded...as I'm new to this adventure

thanks

[CoreyTrx]

If you are going to put a bracket on then I would definitely say an I/o. That's what I did. The transom is already close for you and the cap goes all the way across. If you are rebuilding it anyway you can add some knees if you want to.

[kmoose]

CG on a Tsunami is already way forward than optimum so I wouldn't worry about an I/O hull being any more of a problem.

[wattaway2]

Interesting -- has anyone figured what the weight of a small block check with the exhaust. Manifolds risers intermediate housing and out drive are in contrast to a aluminum twin engine bracket and large outboard I'd think the weight distribution might be closer than you think

[bigeasy1]

I agree with Corey and Moose.
The I/O hull solves the glasswork on the stern for you, with the benefit of an already closed transom.If you do the transom from the inside, by cutting the rear cap and back panel, you will expose the whole inner transom surface and make it fairly easy to add knees and to install any kind of backing plates when attaching the bracket.
I did this with my Tsunami but I kept it with the I/O .
If I remember right I think the Mercrusier 350 260 hp with the Alpha drive in my boat weighs in around 1000 pounds give or take a bit.