Hi Sean, You are no more crazy than average. Dick Lane would tow his old (now my) M23 to the San Juans with the motor on the transom and never had an issue. However, his motor was smaller than yours ( around 75 lbs). I get too nervous, and remove it when towing. The M23 mast IS heavy and beefy. Almost every M23 gooseneck I have seen is bent and distorted from the raising process. Theo's was a real twisted mess. I have had mine rebuilt by a SS metal working buddy, and beefed up from stock. I take it REALLY slowly and carefully for the raising and lowering of the big stick. It's snowing like mad here. Bones, waiting for spring. ____________________________________________________________ Unusual Sleep Trick Scientists in Boston have revealed a natural sleep formula that would have everyone talking. Try it tonight. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/5166bc62502c73c624fb3st02vuc