1969 Larson - Transom Advice

[avpaulb]

Well... I've decided I need a project, likely a big one. Needless to say this old family boat is in need of a transom job. As you can see from the picture, getting to it is going to be an issue.

My thought is to actually take off the entire cap.

Any other thoughts?

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: 1969 Larson - Transom Advice

Welcome to iBoats!

First off you have a long shaft motor on a transom that's made for a short shaft. Thats the reason for that funky aluminum riser bolted onto the transom. I'd recommend looking for a short shaft motor to swap out for the one you have. Next to get to the transom with that big splash well you have two choices. One, cut the gunwales just in front of the splashwell and remove it or two, remove the rubber from the rubrail and drill out the hundreds of rivets or screws that hold the aluminum frame on. This will allow you to remove the entire top cap of the boat. You should remove the windscreen first and the steering + cables. If the transom is bad chances are the stringers and deck will need to be replace as well. The first link in my signature below has helpful info on how to fabricate them. You should do a lot of searching and reading here on the forum for Transom Deck and Stringer repair. You'll find lots of guys doing the same thing you're about to undertake. There's lots of help here on the forum so keep posting pics and asking quesions and we'll be here to help you all along he way.

 

[avpaulb]

Re: 1969 Larson - Transom Advice

It's funny you mention the motor... I figured that was the case. But hey, it came with the boat and runs amazingly. But you can definately tell when it's on the water that it just isn't quite right for the boat.

The ideal plan is to attempt the repair, and if I can pull it off or not, I'm going to sell the motor in favor of a short-shaft.

Definately doing the deck and stringers as well, along with some cosmetics, etc. Projects are fun!

Thanks for the advice, I'll post pics if I dig in!

 

[avpaulb]

Re: 1969 Larson - Transom Advice

I suppose another good question for you would be this... do you know of a way to convert this motor into a short shaft?

Anyone can answer this one...