Transom Saver

Not really looking for advice, but I have a simple question. Do you use a transom saver? I apologize if this topic has been beaten to death.

I have a 1991 Smokercraft 168 Magnum with a 40 hp Mariner. I have used a transom saver since day one and the transom shows no sign of wear. The boat dealer advised me to add a transom saver. 

BA Etec has a very good trailering bracket though.I have the 75 same weight as your 90.I have had the boat on most of the western flowages over some very rough roads.Hell landing comes to mind going to Fort peck.

I bought a used 14' Lund with 25 horse years ago.  It did not come with transom saver.

A few years later I had the motor in the shop.  Brought the whole rig in for motor repair.  The crew pointed out that my transom was getting damaged and I had to have it repaired (re-inforced).  They advised me to use a transom saver after that.   I still own the boat and use a transom saver.  No problems since then and that was 30 years ago.  

My motors have no power tilt/trim.  Just upgraded to 4 stroke last year and still with manual tilt/trim.  Not sure if that matters.  

I use an M-Y Wedge, rather than a transom saver.

There's many opinions on what's best, but this is what I prefer...60 Merc tiller.

never used one until I upgraded to a 90

** yes to boat buckles!! man I like that upgrade a ton!

90 horse etec motor no transom saver

All of my driving is on paved roads

If I was doing back road driving , gravel yes I would get a transom saver

Some years back I ignored my friend's advice initially did not use a transom saver on my 18' glass bass boat. After 12 months and a ton of miles I started seeing small spider cracks in the transom. cause and effect maybe - can't say for sure but have used one ever since. 

225 engine.  Yes.  

9.9 kicker.  No.

No I do not 50 years hauling boats.If you are going to use one put a strap on the bow down to the trailer.

I've owned 35, 50, 70 (2) and 90 HP Outboards on 16' aluminum deep-v boats and have ALWAYS used one, power trim and tilt or not. It takes 10 seconds to put on, supports the motor on rough roads, takes pressure off the hydraulics on your PT&T and prevents skeg and transom damage. I always make sure my winch strap is tightened completely up to the bow eye, so the boat does not move forward or back, then install the transom saver and tie downs (I use Boat Buckle ratcheting tie downs). It takes about 30 seconds to install both boat buckles and the transom saver. I drive a lot of back roads that are not always in the greatest shape. Even if I drove a lot of interstate, I'd still use one. $80 is cheap insurance...