Wood rot

[salmonee]

Someone told me that wood rot occurs more on an I/O boat than that of an outboard. Is this true? Can someone explain why or why not? New to boating and trying to find my first boat. My biggest concern is the stringers rotting.

 

[mike64]

Re: Wood rot

I am far from an expert, but the most obvious reason I'd guess is-- I/O transoms have a big hole in them for the drive to go through. Outboard transoms do not. More opportunity for water intrusion in the I/O.

But there's plenty of opportunity for rot in outboard boats too. I'd say your best bet is examining the boat carefully for any signs of rot in the deck and transom whether outboard or I/O.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Wood rot

Someone told me that wood rot occurs more on an I/O boat than that of an outboard.

Ayuh,..... Bull....

 

[Limited-Time]

Re: Wood rot

If transoms were the only place they rotted....................maybe..........and even thats a stretch..............

 

[Firestar]

Re: Wood rot

Any wood on any boat can rot. It doesn't matter IB, IO or OB.

It all depends on the care the boat was given.

Have an experienced person go with you when you take a look at a used boat.

A quick look at a transom can be telling. Look at the seam where the deck meets the hull at the transom. Check for any deformities. Swelling, waves, separation. Look for sealers added to seams. Press on the transom gelcoat and look for deflection. On the inside check where the OB mounting bolts come through the transom for any signs of damage to the surrounding area. Compression or cracking of the fiberglass.
Pull on the engine of an OB and watch for flex in the transom.
Step on the outdrive of an IO and watch for flex in the transom.

Be aware of any metal plates added to the transom of an OB. The plates may have been added to reinforce a weak transom.

These are just a few pointers.

 

[Joe_the_boatman]

Re: Wood rot

Good advice above.

Also, tap the handle of a large screwdriver around, listening for a hollow "thud" sound. You'll be able to tell the difference between solid wood underneath, and rotted wood. Pay close attention to areas that have penetrations for water to get in, like seat bases, console bases, and any penetrations through the transom.

 

[109jb]

Re: Wood rot

Like others said, all boats that have wood in them can rot. I just bought a outboard boat with rot all through it. It was stored outside, uncovered, and the previous owner had driven 4 screws right through the bottom of the hull.

I however disagree that IO's aren't more prone to rot. Common sense says that a big hole in the transom, and the potential for engine cooling water leaks makes it more likely that an IO, particularly one that is not cared for well, has more potential for water in the hull. This means there is more potential to do things like soak foam, and get to any place whene the wood is not sealed. On top of that you have an engine under cover that gives off heat which would actually help the batceria that rots wood to grow. Having said that, I don't think you should be scared away from an IO, but I personally prefer outboards for smaller boats for a few reasons. First is the stuff mentioned above which is in my opinion minor. Another is that the IO drive has everything an outboard lower unit does and more which is more opportunity for things wearing out. Finally, if the outboard takes a dive you can simply bolt a different one to the transom in about an hour if you use the same brand and don't have to change controls. Not so easy if the IO goes south. The benefits of IO are obvious in that you don't have that motor sticking up in the air, you can buy more power for less money on the used market (Usually), and the 4-stroke thing too. Many IO's have the sunbathing deck too if that's your thing.

My 2 cents

John B.