Waterproofing transom

[Getting_started]

I am going to be replacing the wooden transom in my 14' aluminum boat. I've been reading the various posts on the topic and I'm thinking I'll use these steps

1. Cut exterior grade fir plywood (3/4 ") to size using the old transom.
2. Drill all holes for bolts etc.
3. Remove new transom and water proof it thoroughly
4. Re-install new transom and bolt it in place.

My question is, what product should I use to waterproof the new transom and should I use an epoxy adhesive to attach it to the aluminum ?

I live in Canada and would need a product available in the frozen North. Any comments or suggestions would be welcomed.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Waterproofing transom

all that is required it attaching back with bolts, and use 3M-4200 around the bolt holes, to seal the bolts. you can use 3 coats of oil base paint, or you can use epoxy, or poly.

 

[Stoutcat]

Re: Waterproofing transom

Hi,

Concerning your question, "hould I use an epoxy adhesive to attach it to the aluminum ?"... Take a look at: http://www.woodenboat.com/forum/showthread.php?p=1998665, especially comment 12.

Also, google on: plywood aluminum "construction adhesive"

The problem is that aluminum oxidizes over time...

Concerning using epoxy as a sealer... That's OK, but you need to apply a UV resistant paint or varnish/polyurethane on top of it or the sun will break it down.

As for finding materials, now-a-days I order everything off the Web. (Gotta love Amazon Prime!)

Alan

 

[Getting_started]

Re: Waterproofing transom

Thanks guys. Good information.

 

[sschefer]

Re: Waterproofing transom

O.K. I'm a do it once and do it right kind of person. The transom board on my 14' Western is 1 1/8 thick. I took two pieces and 1/2 marine grade ply and sandwiched in a piece of resin soaked directional carbon fiber mat. I clamped it together using a camber board accross the width to give a slight inward bow and let it setup. Once it was setup I sanded it with 60 grit and gave it all a good coat of GluVit and I coated the transom aluminim and all the seams and welds that I would not be able to get to later.

Once the GluVit setup (48 hours min) I scuff sanded it and painted it with two coats of white oil base Rustoleum. After that dried (48 hours) I put the color coat on using Rustoleum Hammered finish in a spray can.

I'd have no qualms about hanging a 30hp 4 stroke of their now and that boat will be in the recycle bin long before the transom fails again.

 

[jonesg]

Re: Waterproofing transom

you did a good job.