I just installed a talon on a 2005 Puma I bought last fall. Im new to a Cat and bass boat so I know I have a ton to learn with respect to set up…The talon bracket instructions say the universal bracket is compatible with slidemaster and Z-Lock manual plates. I thought that I had a slidemaster, but Im not so sure after looking at some other slidemasters, plus mine doesnt have a threated inner plate. If anyone can confirm from the pics, please let me know.We mounted the bracket as high as possible using the drilled hole on top and the variable hole on the bottom of the bracket. After looking at some pics on this site, my bracket seems to be sitting a bit low in comparison. Do you think the bracket should be higher or should I leave it alone? Im concerned about spray, especially during takeoff.The bottom of the talon is more than 4 inches above the bottom of the boat and Im happy with the transom clearance.Does anyone have a similar setup?Any input is appreciated…
I dont think spray would be a concern as you should still have enough room to raise the talon to avoid that.I have a talon mounted to a slidemaster and it is a couple/few inches higher than yours.With the extra bracket height I have, there is still considerable wobbling while driving or running the boat. That might be something you want to pay attention to.Still, my bracket bolts at the jackplate have held solid since the day I installed. Knock on wood.When I drive any distance, I will drop the talon down in the bracket a couple feet to stabilize it.
I will pay attention to the wobbling for sure. The bracket does feel really solid, but it would not be a good day if it came loose running at speed. I would not be very happy happy happy!!
I dont think it would come off, that being said, I always check all the nuts and bolts every month just for piece of mind! You should save your coins get a bigger plate! Is that a Verado?
I would cut off the excess length on the bolts, or cover them with vacuum hose fittings, etc,,,, in case of wobble or fishing line/stuff hanging in them, otherwise the install looks fantastic !
northern basser wrote:I will pay attention to the wobbling for sure. The bracket does feel really solid, but it would not be a good day if it came loose running at speed. I would not be very happy happy happy!!My initial concern with the wobbling was that it may lead to loose bolts. I still check them periodically, but they have proven themselves to stay tight. Now I lower the talon when driving to prevent the innards from rattling around too much and to relieve stress on the bracket.My bracket is bent has been bent to heck and back, but thats another story. (Though I will mention that if you ever use your talon to control a drift, remember to put it back up before jumping up on plane. lol).
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