Tin boat transum

[roffey]

I have come into possession of a tin boat. The boat looks to be in great condition however the transom if rotten. I will be using a 9.5 motor, This is not big deal as I will just replace the wood. Question is, what kind of wood do I use? I know that pressure treated is a no no. I think marine grade would be best but I just need enough wood to support the motor (9.5). Can I use plywood?

Thanks ahead of time.

 

[Scott Danforth]

2 layers of 3/4" exterior grade plywood glued together with tite-bond III. then either paint the wood (I use tractor paint) or use WOG's old-timers formula

 

[GA_Boater]

Can't go wrong with that.

 

[Frey0357]

Exactly what Scott said! Couldn't have said it any better!

Frey

 

[roffey]

Then its final, all are agreed. It will be done. I live in the country so tractor paint will be easy to come by.

So here's what I'm thinking, 2 layers of 3/4" exterior grade plywood glued together on exterior and one layer of 3/4" on the inside bolted together with brass bolts and nuts with Loctite?

 

[GA_Boater]

Lets see a picture, roffey.

The 2 layers should be on the inside of the transom, that's where the strength come from. The exterior piece is more cosmetic so the motor clamps and swivel bracket don't scratch the transom skin.

 

[roffey]

I'm not near the boat but I see what your saying. This is a 1968 tin boat so cosmetics are't that important. However I will post a pic before and after. I'm having a over heat issue with the motor, easily solved with a fresh impeller maybe I should post that fix as well.

 

[Woodonglass]

Check the motor clamps to see how wide they open. This will tell you how thick the transom can be. For a 10 horse motor I'd expect 3/4 inside and 3/4 outside should be plenty strong. I'd also recommend cleaning the aluminium skin, inside and out with vinegar and then a light coat of Self Etching primer and couple of coats of tractor paint before installing the wood. This will keep the aluminium from corroding.

 

[roffey]

Thanks Woodonglass , that makes sense. I have lots of farmer friends so stealing a little tractor paint will ne easy

 

[Woodonglass]

I'd also make sure and use the Acrylic Enamel Hardener with the paint. It gives a MUCH more shiny gloss finish as well as making the paint cure to a much harder/durable surface.