Removing Transom - Wood Replacement - Alumacraft Model K

[tonynoriega2]

Morning guys...

As I mentioned in my investigation, I think my Alumacraft is a Model K, but am unsure what year. There is a 552 stamped on the lower support arm near the transom and splash well, and a "K" stamped on the two upper.

Anyway, the wood on the outside of the transom seems easy enough to replace, however the inside looks like a "sum *****"...

From what I have read on here is that I will need to drill out the rivets on the two upper support arms of the splash well, does that sound right?

There are 12 to each support arm, so 24 total.

Is there a nice and easy trick to this process?
My assumption is that there are already existing pre drilled holes that were there so that the rivets could fit into those holes, thus there will be some type of "guide" for my drill bit as I start to penetrate through the rivets?

Once I have those two support arms out, looks like the wood should just shimmy its way out.

I have access to just about any type of real nice solid wood from a friend who is a master interior craftsman....

Any suggestions as to what I should use?

I have seen Oak, Maple and a few others... am looking to get a real nice look and piece to fit in there...

thx

 

[jigngrub]

Re: Removing Transom - Wood Replacement - Alumacraft Model K

Grinding the heads off of rivets and then punching them back through the other side is the best way to remove them. Use a Dremmel tool or a small grinder.

Interior grade wood isn't really for boats, and an exterior grade plywood will weather better and be stronger. You can use an ABX grade of plywood, then stain and seal it with an exterior grade urethane or varnish for a real nice look.

 

[mrdjflores]

Re: Removing Transom - Wood Replacement - Alumacraft Model K

+1 what jig said