1984 19ft starcraft outboard transom

[fishbait2]

I need some help, I am replacing my transom. I have the rear of the boat apart.
I just found out the transom is in three pieces. Two on each side and one under them. The bottom board runs from side to side of boat and holds the outboard. Question, Can I or should I replace the three peices with one full peice? I there a reason why the boat has three peices?
Also is there a rivet "C" type tool that press the rivet cheap? Everything seems to be over $200

 

[oops!]

Re: 1984 19ft starcraft outboard transom

dont know bout the rivet gun bud....but everything is over 200 bucks

need pics to know for sure....but id do it all in one

 

[Joe_the_boatman]

Re: 1984 19ft starcraft outboard transom

if your transom's the same as mine, yes, replace the 3 peice w/ 1 piece. You'll have to do a little cutting/bending at the top to be able to pull it out and install, but this'll be covered by the corner cap.

There are (primarily) 2 types of rivets - solid rivets and blind rivets. Blind rivets are used when only 1 side of the material is accessible. Solid rivets are typically used in airplanes and boats, and require a "buck bar" on one side, and something to apply force on the other side (air hammer, sledge hammer, etc). You'll find both types on your Starcraft.

For our purposes, just invest in some pop-rivets (blind rivets) and get a gun if you'll be doing a lot ($35 at harbor freight). I love my pneumatic gun, and they have boxes of 500 pop-rivets for $2.99 there.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: 1984 19ft starcraft outboard transom

Is your boat glass or lummie? My glass boats had a similar "incomplete" transom arrangement that I felt left something to be desired. I made my new transoms full width and height. BEEFY!
- Scott

 

[dfarr26]

Re: 1984 19ft starcraft outboard transom

wow that boat looks amazing, looks brand new!!!