The fact that you mention a rubber boot indicates that you didn't read or didn't
understand the part about stringer mounts being out of production for a long
time. On current sterndrive designs, the engine does not support the drive.
The drive is coupled to the engine with a u-jointed shaft and the transom
supports the drive.

Transom rot has been a problem, with some manufacturers, on both outboards and
sterndrives alike. The rot problem has to do with the encapsulation procedures
and quality control. It is not a function of the type of drive employed.
Reference the classic Mako web site and you will see step by step procedures for
replacing rotted transoms on older outboard models. These older Makos are
prized for their heavy construction, but transom rot is a known problem.

Joseph Stachyra wrote:

to Jim Kelly: Jim I don't believe what you posted stating that the transoms
are the same !!!1
As they say PROVE IT Show me a digital picture of the i/o with the rubber
boot removed, and I'll show you a picture of a i/o that looks like crap and
the plywood soaked with water and oil and falling apart.

"Jim Kelly" wrote in message
...
Inboard transoms and outboard transoms, for a given brand of boat, are of
similar construction.

With the exception of the old OMC "stringer mount" drives, which have been
out
of production for 18 years, the transom carries the weight and thrust of
the
outdrive on a stern drive application. Sleeves which mount on the tilt
rams
while in the up position are available. They take the load off the
hydraulic
cylinders but do not support the weight of the outdrive which is still
carried
by the transom. This load, while trailering, is not generally considered
to
be a problem.

The difference in price between stern drives and outboards is due to the
lower
cost of the engine used on sterndrives.

Joseph Stachyra wrote:

i/o's (transoms) are not built so good. It's usually 3 sheets of
plywood
then glass over that, since the out drive is attached to a engine which
is
bolted to two main rail's that run the length of the boat.
this is why i/o's are dirt cheap compared to the same size in a outboard
version. regardless of brand

"Mike Kasiorek" wrote in message
...
Hello all, After years of outboards, we have bought our first I/O, a
Larson 18' SEI. On all the outboards I have owned and trailered
across
this great country, I always had a transom support. I am not real
familiar yet with I/O's, what kind of transom support is recommended?
Also would like to hear any opinions about Larson boats..Thank you and
boat safe.....Mike