Hi Glen, I'm in Minnesota and own an M17 vintage 1976 hull #92. I do have the cut out transom and have run an outboard in the cutout and on a Fulton motor mount that is presently installed. I am now using a Yamaha 4hp 4 stroke. I have never had water coming over the transom. I have tried using a variety of motors on the M17 from a 10hp Honda 4 stroke to a vintage Merc 3hp 2 stroke (which had its original canvas carrying case), both in the cutout and on the bracket. I do like the outboard motor bracket because you can get the motor out of the water completely and with the helper springs, it is an effortless task. Good luck on an M17 search. They come and go. There was an M17 in the Mpls paper classifieds two weeks ago for sale. M17, motor and trailer for $4800 (American). I'm sure it sold immediately. Later, Bones