Diverdown, what did you end up doing if anything and how is it working out? I would not be concerned about pressure on the bracket with the Permatrims. It's lifting pressure which I think may be even less stress on it. You had posted on another thread about your issues and I never saw any resolution posted. If you haven't done so already, give the Permatrims a shot, you will be happy you did. If it doesn't work out, (I know it will), you can take them off and fill the holes and spray paint easily. Hope you have had a good season with your new boat.