I just don't want to end up redoing the transom in the original configuration to have the same problem with transom flex. Can you elaborate on the flat stock you mentioned in your post?
I think the boat is actually from the mid 90s. The reason I posted is because even with the 5hp outboard, I was getting a lot of transom flex. I don't want to replace the wood in the same configuration and end up with the same transom flex. That's why I was asking about a transom plate.
These are some up close pictures of the transom wood. The wood is definitely de-laminating. The last one is a picture of the tray after I removed the original wood.
Alright, I'll replace the transom wood first. Then probably a water test. I will update this thread with the progress. It sounds like if I need something extra like a knee I can add that later.
It is a short shaft motor. I made sure of that when I bought the outboard. It seems like a poor design because of the leverage. The boat is rated for a 10 hp max outboard. I can't imagine putting that much power to that transom.
That actually happened once when I lifted the outboard off the boat. One of the clamps got caught between the top cap and wood and it cracked it when it was lifted. The top cap does need to be replaced.
That bottom piece is riveted to the back skin of the boat. Is there a way to get rid of it without having to worry about holes/leaks? Taller plywood seems like a better setup. I have never seen another aluminum boat with such thin transom wood like mine.
The flexing made me think I might develop cracks or a break if I went much beyond half throttle. I already have the plywood for new transom wood. I still need to research more about adding a knee, but I'm assuming it would have to be welded in. I also saw an aluminum plate that goes between the...
I'd consider that. The tray that the current transom wood rests in is riveted to the back aluminum skin of the boat. It seems dicey cutting that tray out without developing leaks.
I purchased the plywood already. I was planning on doing just a transom wood replacement, but don't want to end up in the same boat if this is a design flaw as well/only.
