Some guys use something like 3/8" or 1/2" birch ply and screw it into the bottom of the downspout. The tank may not squeeze in, and you have a hole behind the motor. I use plastic mounts, or aluminum T bar that I machine up. It takes forever to do. Your new improved way sounds ok too. I am not a fan of wood any more. It needs paint, and there is not much good paint around any more.
Last edited by aspeed; 10-18-2017 at 04:58 PM.