Hi Connie, Yea that was me with the Valco stern & motor removed while out flyfishing. I really am not considering leaving the motor attached. It's just that the past owner of my new M-17 had done so for years withour any appreciable problems. I guess more than anything it attests to the quality of the M-17, not to mention his luck in keeping the motor. My past sailboat experience has been with a Honda 2hp which is very light and an inboard diesel. This M-17 has a 2-stroke 6hp. I haven't lifted it as yet, but suspect it will go about 60 to 70 pounds. No big thing for me... at this time. I'll be replacing the motor with a 4 to 5 HP 4-stroke. I'd like to go as light as possible and still get the oomph needed. I whole heartedly agree... keep the motor outa sight and outa mind. Bill M-17 SF Bay