Ebko Transom Repair

[kelly9676]

Hello, newbie here with a 1981 Ebko Rogue 1730. I have a transom that is in need of some tlc and havent dug into this kind of problem. Too many years of hauling without a transom saver now has me very concerned. There is a noticeable bow across the transom. A few years back I installed a 1/4" aluminum plate on the inside, but now the edges of the plate have begun to dig into the fiberglass. Sorry I don't have pics yet, but the outside of the transom does not show any cracks in the fiberglass. Im thinking the wood inside is obviously shot and I am pulling off my 78 evinrude 115, tearing out the fuel tank and getting up under the transom for further inspection. I'm considering building a stainless steel plate that wraps over the transom with hopes it will pull back straight. Any thoughts? Im tearing into it this weekend and I hope to upload some pics.

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Ebko Transom Repair

The lack of a transom saver probably had nothing to do with what's taking place with your transom, the problem is the wood is rotten and it's failing. There is no simple or easy external fix and a new larger piece of metal is not the answer. Do a search here on "rotten transom" and you'll have a great deal of reading to do which will give you a few good options on what to do.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Ebko Transom Repair

Welcome to iBoats!

Like ondarvr said, the only way to fix your transom is the RIGHT way. The RIGHT way is to Remove all the rotten inner core wood and replace it with a new fiberglass laminated wood core. The "Bow" will be straightened by the new core an your boat will be BETTER than new. Don't be surprised when you tear things out that you find your stringers have some rot in them as well. If the transom is in this condition the stringer are usually in the same shape. Like he said, Post some pics so we can SEE what you see and we'll be here to help you all along the way of your project. My signature line has a link on how to set your profile settings and how to post your pics.

Welcome Aboard!!!

 

[kelly9676]

Re: Ebko Transom Repair

thank you for your help, I will post some pics this weekend. yes I am going to investigate for rotten transom

 

[kelly9676]

Re: Ebko Transom Repair

i took a fein tool and cut the top of the fiberglass that wraps over the transom. Not much rot, the transom is a couple layers of 5/8 ply. I pulled out the fuel tank and stuck my head in the bilge to see if I can access from underneath- not so. If i am to replace all the wood, i have to cut the back of the boat off. there is some moisture, so with the top cut off in the transom, i'm letting the wood dry out.

 

[TruckDrivingFool]

Re: Ebko Transom Repair

You're seeing the top edge that has "not much rot", consider that transoms usually rot from the bottom and start figuring how much rot is in the bottom. Mine hadn't seen water in almost two years that I know of and was still moist with water squeezing out as I pried on it the day I pulled it out, IOW it's not going to dry out. If you need more proof do some core samples on the inside of the transom (might as well do some on the stingers too).

I'd say its time to decide if you love the boat enough want to gut it for a rebuild, or part it out and find a new boat.

 

[Cadwelder]

Re: Ebko Transom Repair

You have a new transom in your future for sure, along with some repairs to the outer skin. The choice is simply...wanna tear it out and fix it or find another hull (that may be just as bad) for the 115.

If the Rude is in good shape, I'd lean toward fix in her...but only you can decide that.

Good luck....and let's us know where we can help.