Re: waterline on boat
Okay.... now we've got some diagnosis. First of all...... I'm very sorry for all of the work and expense that you are about to experience (glad you've "found" some "free" stuff). My first thought was "Is it worth it?", but you are already into it for $1200, and I don't think you could flip it, knowing what you know now, so you're kind of stuck with doing it. It's not terrible, if you're into that sort of thing.... maybe just this once.

Consider it a learning experience. And you seem pretty revved-up to do it, so this should be fun to watch. Do your research.
I'm not trying to hijack- just throwing this out as a side note- regarding foam- I should do my research, but I've often wondered if some closed-cell pink or blue foam is really that buoyant- meaning is there any value to using it. I dunno... people mention it alot. I guess it can't hurt.
Good to hear about your transom!
Have fun.