aluminum for transom

[newbie600rr]

I have a 81 16' bluefin that needs the transom replaced. I work in a metal shop and can get aluminum sheets for next to nothing. Was thinking of using a sheet of aluminum instead of the usual wood. Do you think 1/2 plate would be thick enough. Was thinking of using composit decking to make up the difference in thickness of what the transom is now and what the new transom will be. I know the decking has now structural support it is just as filler. Any thoughts. Thanks

 

[erikgreen]

Re: aluminum for transom

I/O, outboard, or what?

How will you attach the aluminum to the transom?

Not knowing the boat model, is it fiberglass, wood, or what?

Erik

 

[newbie600rr]

Re: aluminum for transom

Its a aluminum boat with a 50hp outboard. The wood on the transom now is bolted on so that is how I plan on attaching it.

 

[jspano]

Re: aluminum for transom

if the orginal alum skin is good, i'ld go to the wood.
if the orginal is bad i would go with a new skin attached to the boat somehow and then new wood.
either way a heafty pc of alum could be used to stiffen the transom some.
some pics might get more conversation going!!

 

[redfury]

Re: aluminum for transom

If you were to bolt/weld the aluminum together to create the same thickness of the original transom, you'd be set for life. I wouldn't go solid aluminum, but if you sandwiched box aluminum inbetween a couple of thick panels and built it similar to a hollow core door, it would be light weight enough and never have to be replaced.

Boat manufacturers use wood because it's cheap and won't distort like metal work can ( not to mention if you back the engines lower unit into a stump or something, you may break the transom and bend the outer skin, but it can be pounded out and a new piece of wood fitted vs. a solidly built metal transom that might distort and never be the same again.)