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1998 Outrage 23 Evinrude 225

Recently acquired boat and after transporting ~300 miles noticed that one of the mounting bolts had compressed into the transom. Prior to trailering, the boat had gel coat cracks, but I didn't notice the compression.

I can't insert a photo but imagine the washer compressing into transom and the motor now being ~1/16" off transom. Other bolt looks fine and motor is firmly against transom.

Q1: Research says everyone goes to waterlog, but I'd like to hear thoughts on replacing washers with the transom saver (metal plate) before going to worst case scenario.

Q2: I didn't use transom saver (for trailering), the original owner said that it had been trailered in the locked position several times with no issues. I should have done more research. I still need to trailer it another 400 miles to final destination but am not sure what I can/should do beyond purchasing a transom saver prior to trailering. I could tighten bolt, try to replace that washer with bigger plate, etc. I don't have a lift and my boat guy is in SC.

thoughts appreciated. I'm new to BW and this forum so apologies in advance if I'm breaking any rules.
thanks, jack