just wanted to pass on some information for any of you fellow alumaweld stryker owners. i have heard and now confirmed several transom failures on the above model. it seems that alumaweld tried to build a lighter transom on their recent stryker outboard models. the bracing on the inside of the transom does not extend all the way to the sides and places a great amount of stress on the but weld that connects the transom and sides. i have also heard of cracks around the area the motor is through bolted to the transom. i contacted alumaweld and they have agreed to pay up to $300 dollars to upgrade the transom. they send your several pre-cut pieces that are welded onto the extisting bracing and extend to the sides. my part was to remove the rear floatation boxes, the floor decking, the fuel tank, and all wiring, which was no fun job. my boat is a 1998 18 foot stryker open center console, which has a prorated hull warranty. anyways if you have the same model and want further info e- mail as i have been through the process.