1994 Mariah Transom Core Sample Findings

[BraskyBoats]

Hi All,

long time lurker, first time Poster.

after spending hours reading through the boat Restos done on this forum, I was inspired to put a little work into mine as I use it this summer. Hit list is to reupholster all seats and recarpet everything in my 94 Mariah Talari.

anyways before putting the money and time into restoring some cosmetics on this boat I wanted to check the transom and stringers (maybe as a result of paranoia set it by what some here have discovered).

i followed the recommendation of others here and core sampled the transom first with 2 drill holes right by the drain plug and 1 above by the outdrive mounts. Nothing black or mushy but definitely not light as I would have like to have seen. Nothing feels wet, no water came out with the shavings. I’m keeping the shavings in a plastic bag in the sun to see if anything sweats.

does this look normal/what you’d like to see out of a 94s transom core sample? I have seen many a post showing pics of how to drill, just nothing with actual findings.

dont want to sink a bunch of money into cosmetics if the bones aren’t strong.

Any thoughts? Thanks!

brasky

 

[Scott Danforth]

looks wet

 

[Woodonglass]

IMHO, it could be in the very early stages of saturation. I'd drill some holes a bit further away from the key hole and compare those shavings with what you have. If you have some dampness you'll be able to see the difference.

Are you planning on doing your own upholstery work? We have a lot of experienced Stitchers' here on the forum.

 

[BraskyBoats]

Thanks guys,

yes I am planning on both recarpeting and restitching everything. Just need to get the structural integrity figured out first.

Per your reccomendation, I drilled a few more holes in the top corner of the transom and what I’m seeing is exactly the same as what came from the keyhole.

As a result of doing it in the dark, I now have some 4200 to get off of my hands...probably should have sealed the holes up in the am...

If in the early stages of saturation as stated, is there anything that can be done or is it a matter of time?

-brasky

 

[Woodonglass]

Yeah well as you say, It's just a matter of time. Depending on Temps etc. 1-3 years and you'll prolly need to replace it. Keep a close eye on it and keep checking for cracks ets...