transom inspection

[tbird175]

I am restoring a late 60's model Thunderbird Seminole (cathredal hull). It is powerd by a 175 HP Mercury Blackmax. The boat has not been in the water for about 12 years, has been stored under a shelter all time. I would think that any moisture in the transom would be dissipated by now. What is the best way to detect any transom deterioration?

 

[oops!]

Re: transom inspection

hi welcome to i boats..........search core sample....


but......take a drill ........put in a smaller type bit.....place tape around the bit at 3/4 inch from the tip (depth gauge)

drill into the transom in various places........look at the wood shavings when they come out of the bit.......

you can also do a tap test........just rap with a rubber mallett on the transom.

 

[jonesg]

Re: transom inspection

just drill a couple of holes, I got clear water out of the lower hole and the top hole produced back pulp.
Or if you find any glass compression when the motor is tightened down, the wood inside is gone.
If it was wet , the problem can turn into dry rot.

Thunderbird is a neat looking boat, I have a cathedral hull too, they ride nice and sit stable when stopped. Well worth fixing if its shot,
transom work isn't bad if you commit to doing it right from the get go.
I used seacast in mine. My boat is a 20' Chrysler center console.