Let’s Talk About Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum
The Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum is designed to solve a very specific problem: reliably and safely mounting a small outboard motor to a boat. This bracket, manufactured by Panther, is engineered to handle the unique demands of modern four-stroke engines, which often have more torque than their two-stroke counterparts.
I’ve spent years wrestling with transom mounts that weren’t up to the task, leading me to search for a durable and adjustable solution. The promise of accommodating up to a 15 HP four-stroke motor (or 20 HP two-stroke) with a weight limit of 132 lbs, combined with its lightweight aluminum construction, immediately caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, the Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum made a solid first impression. The black, hard-coat anodized aluminum finish looks clean and professional, and the unit feels surprisingly robust given its weight. The polypropylene mounting board is thick and seems truly weatherproof, promising longevity even in harsh marine environments.
Compared to some cheaper, universal transom mounts I’ve used in the past, the Panther bracket feels like a significant upgrade in terms of material quality and overall design. I chose this model over others because of its specified compatibility with four-stroke engines and the added safety features like the twist-knob safety locks. My initial excitement was definitely justified; this bracket seems like a well-engineered piece of equipment that should provide years of reliable service.
Real-World Testing: Putting Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum was on a small aluminum fishing boat used primarily in freshwater lakes. I mounted a 9.9 HP four-stroke outboard to the bracket and spent a day trolling for walleye. The bracket performed admirably, even when navigating choppy waters and making frequent speed adjustments.
The adjustability of the bracket was particularly useful. I was able to easily fine-tune the motor height to achieve optimal performance and minimize cavitation. There were no unexpected issues, and the motor felt secure and stable throughout the entire day.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to sun, rain, and saltwater spray.
The hard-coat anodized aluminum finish has held up well, with no noticeable corrosion or fading. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is all that’s required to keep it in good condition. In comparison to previous transom mounts that quickly developed rust and became difficult to adjust, the Panther bracket has exceeded my expectations in terms of longevity and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum
Specifications
The Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum is designed for 4-stroke motors up to 15 HP or 2-stroke motors up to 20 HP, with a maximum weight of 132 lbs. This horsepower and weight rating makes it suitable for a wide range of small to mid-sized outboard motors.
It boasts a 2″-thick, extra-wide, weatherproof polypropylene mounting board and aircraft-type stainless steel hardware. These materials are crucial for withstanding the corrosive marine environment and ensuring long-term durability.
The bracket features a five-position lock bar and 10″ of travel, allowing for precise trim adjustment. This adjustability is essential for optimizing motor performance in varying water conditions and with different boat configurations.
Performance & Functionality
The Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum performs its primary function – securely and reliably mounting an outboard motor – exceptionally well. The motor feels stable and vibration is minimal, even at higher speeds.
The twist-knob safety locks provide an added layer of security, preventing the bracket from accidentally disengaging. While the included safety cable (Panther 55-0415) is sold separately, it’s a critical addition to ensure complete peace of mind.
Design & Ergonomics
The Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum is thoughtfully designed with ease of use in mind. The five-position lock bar is simple to operate, and the 10″ of travel provides ample range for adjusting the motor height.
The heavy-duty stainless steel torsion springs counterbalance the motor’s weight, making it easier to lift and lower the motor. This is a significant advantage, especially when dealing with heavier four-stroke engines.
Durability & Maintenance
The high-quality materials and robust construction of the Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum suggest that it will last for many years with proper care. The hard-coat anodized aluminum finish is resistant to corrosion, and the polypropylene mounting board is impervious to water damage.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a periodic rinse with fresh water to remove salt and debris. The use of stainless steel hardware further reduces the risk of corrosion and ensures long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum doesn’t come with a wide range of accessories, but it is compatible with the Panther 55-0415 safety cable, which is highly recommended for added security. While not a customization option per se, ensuring you select the correct bolt length for your specific transom thickness is essential for a secure installation.
Other aftermarket accessories, such as transom wedges to adjust the mounting angle, may also be compatible depending on individual needs and boat configurations. The bracket itself is designed to be a universal mounting solution, so compatibility with third-party accessories is generally good.
Pros and Cons of Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum
Pros
- Durable Construction: The hard-coat anodized aluminum and stainless steel hardware ensure long-lasting performance in harsh marine environments.
- Adjustable Design: The five-position lock bar and 10″ of travel allow for precise trim adjustment and optimal motor performance.
- Easy to Use: The bracket is simple to install and operate, with intuitive controls and clear instructions.
- Safety Features: The twist-knob safety locks and the optional safety cable provide added security and peace of mind.
- Specifically Designed for 4-Stroke Motors: Engineered to handle the increased torque of modern four-stroke engines, unlike many generic transom mounts.
Cons
- Safety Cable Sold Separately: The Panther 55-0415 safety cable, a crucial safety item, is not included and must be purchased separately.
- Price: At $316.99, the Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum is more expensive than some other transom mounts on the market, although the quality justifies the price.
Who Should Buy Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum?
The Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum is perfect for boaters who need a reliable and adjustable transom mount for their small to mid-sized outboard motor, especially if they are using a modern four-stroke engine. It’s an excellent choice for fishermen, recreational boaters, and anyone who values durability and ease of use.
This product may not be necessary for boaters who only use their outboard motor occasionally in calm conditions and are willing to settle for a cheaper, less robust transom mount. Also, boaters with larger, heavier outboards exceeding the 132 lbs weight limit should seek a heavier-duty bracket.
A must-have accessory is definitely the Panther 55-0415 safety cable. Beyond that, consider the transom angle of your boat. You might need shims if it deviates significantly from the bracket’s intended flat mounting surface.
Conclusion on Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum
Overall, the Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum is a well-engineered and durable transom mount that delivers on its promises. The high-quality materials, adjustable design, and safety features make it a worthwhile investment for boaters who demand reliability and performance.
The price is justified by the superior build quality and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your outboard motor is securely mounted. I would definitely recommend the Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum to anyone looking for a top-quality transom mount for their small to mid-sized outboard motor. Don’t compromise on safety and performance – invest in the Panther 55-0407AL Lightweight 4 Stroke Bracket Aluminum and enjoy worry-free boating!