To replace or not to replace the transom.

[OV1961]

OK, now I'm not so sure I need to replace the transom. I drilled a couple of test holes in the top with a 1" spade bit to a depth of about 5 inches. The wood was wet on top (because it was covered over by the aluminum trim cap) but not really that much down to 5", just kind of damp. And the wood didn't seem that much easier to cut than dry ply, but still slightly damp. I poked a dull awl into the sides of the holes going thru the transom from bolts of various attachments like the anode and the stern eyes. Not much penetration, 1/8" max.

What if I rout out the top 1" of transom and plug the thru holes with oversized dowels? I think the transom is fairly solid, but how much moisture in the wood is acceptable? The transom never flexed or showed signs of trouble even with a 110 horse Mercury on the back of the 17 footer. The transom is 1-3/4" thick inside the fiberglass.

Should I decide on the dowels, what do you think of the waterproof glues like Gorilla Glue?

 

[ezmobee]

Re: To replace or not to replace the transom.

I never thought I say this on here or hear it said but......but.....I don't think you need to replace that transom!!!

 

[redfury]

Re: To replace or not to replace the transom.

The top may be okayish, but I'd drill a small hole down by the drainplug on either side of it. My Glastron was decent for the most part ( damp ) but the rot was hitting it down by the "V" of the hull.