Boat stern transom thingy

[Mano del Sol]

Ok, I don't even know what you call this thing:

The thing that goes in the discolored place.

So, does it do anything structural at all?

The old one was rotted wood, I don't remember how thick it was so how thick SHOULD it be?

Do I even need it?

I have some 1/4" exterior ply here and I was thinking of using that.

Thanks. I know this is a major newb question?

 

[gcboat]

Re: Boat stern transom thingy

It's definately some type of additional motor support. From the picture I can't tell if it's metal or a fiberglass patch job. But it is a thingy for sure!

 

[CATransplant]

Re: Boat stern transom thingy

A piece of plywood goes there, if this is your Starcraft. I suggest 3/8" for that pad. It's designed to keep the mount of the outboard from wearing the aluminum, but has no real structural function. Use exterior plywood, and seal it up good. Don't worry about fiberglassing it or anything like that...just paint it with good enamel, coating both sides and edges.

It's easy enough to replace the next time it wears out. Pay more attention to the wooden transom insert on the inside of the transom. On mine, I had to piece together a 3/4" and a 3/8" piece to fit inside the aluminum top molding. I just glued them with gorilla glue and mounted it with the 3/4" layer facing into the boat. Same thing there...paint to seal it. It's one of those things you replace from time to time.

Be sure to seal the bolts or screws you use with 4200 sealant. Don't use 5200, because you'll want to replace these every few years.