Best way to fix transom cracks?

[DJD775]

I own a 16' fiberglass dory and I recently noticed i have a few cracks in the fiberglass on the inside of the transom. The cracks are about 2-4 inches long and do not go through to the wood core. What is the best way to repair the cracks? Is there some type of filler I could use or should I grind down and patch with fiberglass?<br /><br />Thanks<br />Dan

 

[Mark42]

Re: Best way to fix transom cracks?

Dan,<br /><br />Crack on inside of transom my indicate that it is getting soft and the stress of the motor pushing it has created cracks. <br /><br />In any event, you could sand the cracks and apply an epoxy like Marine-Tex. Goes on thicker than peanutbutter. Use a putty knife and force it into the crack and scrape off the excess. After it hardenes, you can sand it smooth.<br /><br />If the cracks are due to normal wear and tear, the epoxy should solve the problem. If they come back and/or get larger, then you may need a transom repair due to wet wood rot. An easy way to determine if the transom is OK prior to making the fix is to drill a few 1/4 in holes from the inside into the transome to get a sample of the core. If it's dark and wet and "mulch" like, it's rotten. If it's dry and light colored, you are good to go. Just fill in the holes you drilled with epoxy too.

 

[DJD775]

Re: Best way to fix transom cracks?

Thanks for the post. The wood core seems to be fine. I recently driled holes in the transom to install two tow rings and the wood looked good.<br /><br />Dan

 

[Mark42]

Re: Best way to fix transom cracks?

BTW, If you use Marine Tex brand epoxy, follow the directions exactly for mix ratio. And don't be surprised if it takes half a day to harden. A day or two later it is cured. It has performed flawlessly where I used it to fill in screw holes in the hull (from old cover snaps). No shrink or cracking around it.

 

[lark2004]

Re: Best way to fix transom cracks?

An easy way to see if your core is starting to go soft, is to use your outboard leg. Raise the motor and use it like a lever, try to move it up and down, if the transom flexs then you might have a bigger problem than just a few cracks.