Transom is Shot!!!

[petersen_1955]

Some background-<br />I bought a 1975 Cobalt 18' tri-hull, 233 Mercruiser(I/O), this past September. Everything appeared to be in great shape on the surface. I purchased it from a couple that had owned it all but the first year (they bought it from a friend). I paid $3,800 for it and the EZ Loader roller trailer.<br /><br />I am storing the boat at an indoor storage facility (they also do service work). I had it winterized and yesterday they took off the lower unit to install a new water pump for me. The guy called me up because he found something else that needed attention. Nothing major.<br /><br />Then he tells me that the transom is pretty much shot and gives me an rough estimate of $2,500-3,000 to repair it. Also the bell housing is cracked in two places by the throttle cable(i think). He said that at some point water must have gotten in there and frozen over the winter to crack it open. No big deal, $75 labor and some JB Weld would do the job.<br /><br />I went to check out the transom. He took a hammer and tapped around for me. It sounded pretty hollow in most places. The two teak steps on back are pretty loose (no one went skiing since I bought it or they would have pulled out when stepped on). Then he showed me that who ever pulled off the outdrive, put the transom gasket back on and put silicone sealant all around the outside. They also put silicone on the anode bolts. Who ever did this must have known there was a water problem.<br /><br />Well, I'm not spending $2,500-3,000 to repair her. I guess my question is, who should be responsible for remedying this? What is your feeling on what should be done.<br /><br />1. If the mechanic didn't tell the previous owner about the problem, shouldn't they repair it now?<br /><br />2. If the previous owner DID know about it, shouldn't they either fix it now or buy back the boat?<br /><br />3. Chaulk it up to getting taken(sucker/first-time boat owner), hope that my mechanic will take the boat from me for the work he's already done.<br /><br />Thanks for your advise.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: Transom is Shot!!!

Hi Pete,<br /> The transom issue is something that is really hard to hide and is one of those things that could have easily been checked prior to purchasing the boat. It's also one of those things that the previous owners may have had no clue about unless they looked for it. Just because there is sealant around the through-hull stuff doesn't mean they knew there was a rot issue. Hate to say it, but I'd chalk it up to experience. Before buying your next boat, spend the a few bucks up front to have it checked out before writing the check.<br /> Alternatively, if you're the least bit handy, replacing the transom isn't difficult. Time consuming, yes, but not difficult. Would make a great winter project! (Hey, you did post this in the restoration and building section!!) There are lots of posts on these boards regarding transom replacement...<br /> Good luck!<br />- Scott

 

[Mark42]

Re: Transom is Shot!!!

Don't be too surprised if the stringers are going too. Not at all uncommon with rotted transom.<br /><br />Have it completely inspected and decide now if you want to fix it, or sell it, or buy another boat and swap over your drive, etc.<br /><br />It is sooooo important to know what you have before you make any more decisions and spend any more money. <br /><br />BTW, how do you rate yourself for "do it yourself" type projects?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Transom is Shot!!!

you are not in as bad of finalcial shape as you think, if you part it out. the engine and outdrive are worth quit a bit, and the easy lad trailer can be reuse on another boat or sold. or if you really like the boat it's a good dirty project. plan on changing clothes in the garage or basement, cause she won't let you in like that.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Transom is Shot!!!

It is a shame that you did not read your own post before you bought this rig - that would be tough to do.<br /><br />I wish we could put your post somewhere as a "must read" for all to read who are contemplating buying an older boat. Your purchase has most of the elements of what not to do. If you buy another boat spend some time here reading what our folks recommend that prospective buyers do BEFORE taking out their wallets.<br /><br />As to your questions - -"who should be responsible for remedying this? What is your feeling on what should be done." You are responsible for remedying this since you did not have the boat surveyed or checked out by a knowledgeable marine mechanic before you bought it or do a water test with the seller. These are MUSTS and especially with a boat that is 31 years old. As to what now - - Chalk this one up to experience and get what you can as tashasdaddy <br />suggests.