Viking - Here's the update and outcome.

Engineering and production at Skiers Choice looked at all the facts. Upshot: There is no compromise to the integrity of the tower as currently mounted or possibilty of stress fracture to the fiberglass deck.

Nonetheless, Skiers Choice wants to do things right and bring this tower install into conformity. It has asked the dealer from which the boat was purchased to do the underside glass and bracket work, with cost to be absorbed by the factory.

I have learned that deck construction on different models, as well as on the same models over different years, can vary. In addition, factors such as tower design, bracket placement, and underside reinforcement also differ from applicaiton to application. So, the decision with respect to the tower situation on my '07 Outback may not apply in other situations.

Next step is for me to schedule a service repair date with the dealer. Want to avoid hauling her back and forth in the snow. She's my pride and joy. - Deerfield