89 Tracket Transom replacement

jdmcpha2

Cadet
Joined
Mar 11, 2012
Messages
7
I replaced the original 20hp Merc with a new Suzuki 25hp 4 stroke this week. The shop that installed it told me my transom will need to be replaced. Not right away, but that it has a definite bow and is starting to get soft in spots.
The boat is great. I doubt a single rivet leaks. I'm replacing all the wood floor and decking. Basically a complete remodel. Going to run 2 batteries. starting battery in the back and house battery up front.
I plan on doing the work this summer or in the fall. I've been youtubing the process and read a few threads here and on Iboats.
My questions are:
1. If the transom is 1.5" thick, is it better to go with 2 layers of 3/4" marine grade or 3 layers of 1/2"? One site suggested that multiple layers is better?
2. Epoxy to glue the layers and coat the outside of the wood - West Systems? What epoxy and fillers do I need?
3. The inside aluminum sheet on the transom looks to be very thin. Would it be better to use diamond plate or a thicker aluminum?
What else do I need to know before taking this on.

Thanks in advance20220416_090637.jpg
 

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Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
50,234
2 pieces of 3/4" and 3 pieces of 1/2" is the same number of plys. just buy a sheet of 3/4" ply

you only need tite-bond 3 to glue the plywood together

pulling the motor, corner caps and transom cap, removing the old transom, making the new one, painting it with oil based paint, swapping in the new wood and re-hanging the motor is a weekend project. suggest you do it now before the transom comes off.

no epoxy needed

no do not add diamond plate or other band-aids.
 
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