Transom replacement, is it worth it?

[rubberduck]

The transome on my 83 bayliner I/O has some rotted spots near the bolt holes, I'd say 6" in diameter. Most of the transom seems solid but I wont really know until I remove the motor. I believe the water came from the transom plate not seated properly. No signs of chaulk and a visible gap near the bottom.

Do I have to replace the entire transom or can I cut out the rotted section and epoxy in the wood?

There's also a spot on the floor I was going to replace and that would also give me a chance to inspect the stringers. Overall the deck seems solid and my only plan was to rip up the carpet and glass/paint.

I have the winter and can work out of my garage but what do you think it will cost for a do-it-yourself transome repair (figure worst case) and floor work? What temps can you glass/epoxy in as I live in NE and the garage is only heated with a kerosine torpido.


Thanks for the help.

 

[JustMrWill]

Re: Transom replacement, is it worth it?

Is it worth it? That all depends on you and your feelings towards this boat. How much is this boat "worth" to you? What most have found, is that "some rot" usually mean "alot of rot". Alot of people here will recommend "doing it right" and replacing the entire transome...and stringers and floor. If there is any rot, I would have to agree. Why waste the time to patch it today...just so that you have to patch something else in a few years.

The cost of replacing the transom, stringers and floor will vary greatly on what materials you use. For the "best" (I say "best" because this is yet another matter of opinion) re-build...you are looking at using marine grade plywood, epoxy resin, re-gelcoating etc...that will put in in the thousands range. If you want to go cheaper...using exterier grade A-C plywood, polyester resin and re-carpet or paint...then you "can" get away with $200 (transom only) - $1000 (everything replaced), I would recommend looking at Merton's in Springfield Ma for your supplies since they are "local". You can save a bundle if you can go pick it up. Another recommended supplier is USComposites...they are out of Florida (I believe) so you will end up paying a small fortune for shipping.

Now, of course you must factor in the time it will take...I have seen some rebuilds take a couple weeks....while others...several years. It depends on your motivation and comfort level in what you are doing. Do a search here on transom replacement and you will find about a year's worth of reading...also...check out www.shareaproject.com to see what some others have done and how. You can also sign up for free there and share your progress...we LOVE pictures so make sure you take plenty of of before, during and after photos!!

Good luck!!
If you have any questions, it is much better to ask than to do something and regret it.

-JMW

 

[flashback]

Re: Transom replacement, is it worth it?

Ya gotta luv the da boat..