Transom Project, Advice needed

[Ltmcleod]

I bought this boat and trailer for $500 with the intentions of fixing it up. Its a Alumacraft 1562.

I have everything cleaned out of the transom but you can see what it was like before. My question is if I just replace the board and put the two braces back as shown in the picture will that be enough strength in the transom for a 25hp? The boat was originally rated for a 25hp. There are also a couple cracks in the top/cap of the transom, I'm planning on getting those welded up before putting new wood in the transom. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[Fisherball]

Re: Transom Project, Advice needed

If you cover the ply with fiberglass & resin & it will last years. Check the Resto forum.

 

[Ltmcleod]

Re: Transom Project, Advice needed

Thanks for moving it for me, I'm pretty new to the forum.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Transom Project, Advice needed

Welcome to the iBoats Dry Dock,

Yep, Fisherball is spot on!! BUT.... DO NOT USE TREATED PLYWOOD!!! Use plain old Ext. Grade Plywood. Buy some 10 minute epoxy and Seal the edges of the wood. Then give it multiple coats of Marine Varnish. It will last for YEARS.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Transom Project, Advice needed

In addition to what was mentioned (especially the no PT part, that's key as the new PT eats aluminum) I'd also mention that it's kinda rare on small aluminum boats like that for the transom wood to go the whole way to the bottom. I'd make my new piece at least 2 inches or so short of the floor. Lessens the chance of the new wood sitting in water.

Best way to seal it is with resin and glass. Poly or epoxy resin. You can also use epoxy resin by itself but you can't use poly by itself as it has no strength without glass. Epoxy isn't UV protected so you'll want to paint it after sealing it.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Transom Project, Advice needed

Yeah, EZ is right about the wood not going to the bottom. That would be a LOT better. I would also be better to use Poly or Epoxy for the WHOLE thing but more expensive and time consuming. Sealing the edges with epoxy and usine the Marine varnish will take less time and still give you years of service with Ext. Grade plywood. He IS 100% correct about it being the BEST way. Totally up to you. I was just giving an alternative. The Marine Varnish IS UV protective also.