Wet Transom

mandoman68

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 20, 2009
Messages
38
What is a wet transom? How does it occur? What should folks do to try and avoid having one? What is the process for repair? Ect. Thank you:)
 

HappierWet

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Sep 11, 2008
Messages
839
Re: Wet Transom

A wet transom is when the wooden core becomes saturated with water. The wood delaminates and rots. I don't know of anything that will completely prevent it, but I can tell you some things that will guarantee problems.

A: Drilling holes through the transom and not sealing them before inserting the fastener. Do NOT use silicone to seal.

B: Keeping the bilge area wet or not allowing air movement when the boat is not in use.

C: Ignoring cracks in the transom area or splashwell, although if there are cracks a problem probably already exists.


This is not a comprehensive list, only the most common in my experience.

Repair involves surgery, you can browse the restoration threads for more input there.

Welcome Aboard and Good Luck.
 

mandoman68

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 20, 2009
Messages
38
Re: Wet Transom

If silicone should never be used to seal holes in the transoms than what would be the best choice as a sealant?
 

Spinnaker

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 5, 2009
Messages
210
Re: Wet Transom

If silicone should never be used to seal holes in the transoms than what would be the best choice as a sealant?

Sika-Flex, 3M's 5200 but only to seal screws or installs. If you have holes then a proper repair should be performed.
 
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