Fiberglass Chip QUestion

[bisonfan]

Hello!! Newbie here to the board. I am considering the purchase of a used boat in the next year and am starting to look around to increase my knowledge of boats so I can make a better informed decision on my purchase.

Yesterday, I was looking at a 1988 Hydrostream Valero YT in a retail lot and noticed some chipping of the fiberglass shell on the bottom of the transom. I really liked the boat but am afraid that these chips have compromised the structural integrity of the balsa (?) frame. IF there is a way to determine that the structure has not been compromised, I am willing to tackle the fix myself.

I haven't talked with any boat repair centers to see what they think as I really like the information that this forum provides.

I did talk to a marine surveyor about a visit when I am ready to purchase. It would cost about $450 to get him here and review for pre purchase and basic condition (structural review)

Pictures of the chipping can be seen here

http://s739.photobucket.com/albums/xx34/ndsubisonfan/

Any comments are greatly appreciated!!!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Fiberglass Chip QUestion

Ayuh,... That's purely cosmetic....

 

[jonesg]

Re: Fiberglass Chip QUestion

Of more concern is the stringers and transom core.

 

[Mr.Swee]

Re: Fiberglass Chip QUestion

Ayuh,... That's purely cosmetic....

I agree....I wish mine was that simple.

 

[bisonfan]

Re: Fiberglass Chip QUestion

Thanks for the response to my question/concerns. I am still a bit bit concerned about the stringers/transom condition.

Any hints/clues on how to determine a value for this boat? I looked on the NADA website but Hydrostream is not a listed boat manufacturer. It also says that the Evinrude 140hp motor is worth $425. I find that hard to believe.

The boat is rated for 175hp with a 140 hp motor, it is the original motor from what the seller states (original owner). Question is since the boat is rated for 175, does the 140 have enough power to wreck the transom (assuming it is good condition)?

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Fiberglass Chip QUestion

As long as the transom is in good condition (no rot), any motor that its rated for will do no damage to the transom. Motors don't damage transoms, water does.

 

[Seadooman03]

Re: Fiberglass Chip QUestion

I dont think there's a "safe" bet way to know for sure how good of condition the transom is in other then then drill a hole down towards the bottom, and see what kind of wood chips come out. You can bang on it all day long and that wont help. As fair as the stringers go, its all a hidden secret until you tear the thing apart. Unless the floor is bubbling, and the carpet never seems to dry out, your guess is as good as anyone else. Seriously tho..drill some holes.

 

[jonesg]

Re: Fiberglass Chip QUestion

A small sharp screwdriver, reach in the bilge and try pushing it into the bottom of the transom, if it goes in the transom is rotting.
Be discrete, don't wave it around.