Rotting Transom Opinion on Usage

[sje0123]

I just bought a 1979 Starcraft SS 18'. I was aware of the condition of the transom. I plan on repairing it during the off season.

My question is, is this safe to run on for the time being? I just want to run the boat to find any quirks and work on them during the off season so when next year comes we can hit the water ASAP.

The PO had drilled in and used the stuff you inject in rotten wood to make it solid.

What you see is the extent of the damage. I'd estimate 6"x12" in the bottom starboard corner. I all but hung on the transom and obviously it flexed, but not enough that I felt I was going to break it. I picked away all the wood that would come. What you see left up is stuck.

What's your guys opinions? Would you feel comfortable running it this way?

 

[rwhodel]

Re: Rotting Transom Opinion on Usage

I would not trust it to last or endanger yourself or your family. It look like you already have it part way torn down, why not remove and replace with exterior or marine plywood with expoxy or fiberglass to protect it. Check out other transom projects on the restoration forum.

 

[oops!]

Re: Rotting Transom Opinion on Usage

if the damage is in the bottom corner.....and you feel it wont break.....run it.....the season is only 2 more months.....but then re do it

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Rotting Transom Opinion on Usage

What kind of horsepower, what kind of useage??? As long as you are NOT torqing it real bad it should be ok.

 

[sje0123]

Re: Rotting Transom Opinion on Usage

I would not trust it to last or endanger yourself or your family. It look like you already have it part way torn down, why not remove and replace with exterior or marine plywood with expoxy or fiberglass to protect it. Check out other transom projects on the restoration forum.

I don't have anything torn down yet. In this boat you just life the curtain across the splashwell and can see the entire transom.

if the damage is in the bottom corner.....and you feel it wont break.....run it.....the season is only 2 more months.....but then re do it

It's definitely my #1 priority come Fall.

What kind of horsepower, what kind of useage??? As long as you are NOT torqing it real bad it should be ok.

80hp, cruising, possible crabbing and such. Absolutely no tubing/skiing with it in the condition it's in. Essentially nothing that will put added stress on it.

Torqing as in just mashing the throttle? I don't plan on that. Not until I know the motor runs real strong and the transom is replaced.


Also, the cause of all this is one of the previous owners installing a fish finder transponder and not sealing it properly.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Rotting Transom Opinion on Usage

Based on usage, I'd say you can use it the rest of the season with and eye for caution!!!