Advice on transom leak, 1974 starcraft

[novanglus422]

Hi All. I'm new here, but getting underway with a restoration (1974 Starcraft Mariner 21'). Here's a couple pics of where we've been and where we're at, to give you a sense.

Lots of questions, but here's a quick one. There's definitely a leak at the seam between the transom skin and the hull. Transom will be replaced, but I'm wondering about this leak (plz see pic; leak is from seam where all the crud is). Will I just need to tighten the rivets?

Thanks in advance!

 

[airshot]

First off, all that crud needs cleaned out to allow a seal. I would try tightening the rivets, easy to do know that the hull is open. The inside also needs a thorough cleaning to make any sealer stick. Most folks use gluvit on the inside and it is great stuff. I have come across a sealing material that has served me very well. Designed as a clear roofing sealer, called " leak stopper" availiable thru Home Depot andvTractor supply. This stuff paints on milky white but dries clear. This stuff is tough as nails and can be painted over. UV stable, designed for outdoors. Much less expensive than gluvit. I have used this stuff on my jon boat where actual holes have been rubbed thru on the ribs from dragging it over rocks and sand. After 6 years the stuff has not worn away and stiil has no leaks. Painted the bottom inside and out then painted over it. Paint is worn thru but clear seal has not. Anyway....clean the leak area thoroughly, tighten the rivets, then seal inside with gluvit or leak stopper, the leak stopper can be used on the outside as well. Good luck !!

 

[novanglus422]

First off, all that crud needs cleaned out to allow a seal. I would try tightening the rivets, easy to do know that the hull is open. The inside also needs a thorough cleaning to make any sealer stick. Most folks use gluvit on the inside and it is great stuff. I have come across a sealing material that has served me very well. Designed as a clear roofing sealer, called " leak stopper" availiable thru Home Depot andvTractor supply. This stuff paints on milky white but dries clear. This stuff is tough as nails and can be painted over. UV stable, designed for outdoors. Much less expensive than gluvit. I have used this stuff on my jon boat where actual holes have been rubbed thru on the ribs from dragging it over rocks and sand. After 6 years the stuff has not worn away and stiil has no leaks. Painted the bottom inside and out then painted over it. Paint is worn thru but clear seal has not. Anyway....clean the leak area thoroughly, tighten the rivets, then seal inside with gluvit or leak stopper, the leak stopper can be used on the outside as well. Good luck !!

Thank you! We'll give it a thorough cleaning and tighten up the rivets. I did wonder about how well the sealer stuff might work. Very glad to hear it will do a good job.