bilge drain in new transom

[tbird175]

I am preparing to replace the rotted transom in my cathedral hull thunderbird boat. My question is about the bilge drain. I would like the opinions of you experienced boat people. Do you recommend the garboard type, flared tube, or any other types for a new transom (plywood core)? I will be doing the work myself and want it to be the best design possible. I am replacing the plywood from the inside, the outside skin will not be disturbed.

 

[Cadwelder]

Re: bilge drain in new transom

I like the brass flared tubes. You can pick up a flaring tool for them and they make a very professional job. Can also be flared with a ball peen hammer carefully.

 

[drewpster]

Re: bilge drain in new transom

Generally you want to go back to what was there originally unless you are upgrading it. Brass tubes are nice but they do take a special tool to install them. You can make your own tool but that takes a little trial and error. Garboard drains are normally used in areas where the drian plug is not removed as often, like to drain under a deck.
In any case you want to make sure to seal the wood in the opening completely. I like to use a permanent sealant like 3M 5200 for drain tubes. To seal the wood behind garboard drains normally the wood is sealed with resin and glass.

 

[tbird175]

Re: bilge drain in new transom

The drain plug will be removed after each trip to the lake and reinstalled proir to next launch so I will probably use the brass tube. Should I oversize the hole to allow space for the 5200 to seal around the tube?

 

[Cadwelder]

Re: bilge drain in new transom

No not really oversized, just the drill bit wobble will take care of that part. Seal it good with the 5200 and flare out the inside of the new tube....you'll be fine.

 

[tbird175]

Re: bilge drain in new transom

Thanks for the good advice everybody.

 

[Outsider]

Re: bilge drain in new transom

The drain plug will be removed after each trip to the lake and reinstalled proir to next launch so I will probably use the brass tube.

If the plug can be easily accessed from inside and you have enough access to be able to flare the tube properly, use the tube. If not, go with a garboard ...