How do i reseal An Enclosed Transom On a Aluminum Boat without welding?

[R.Miller]

I just got an aluminum boat it is a 1996 spectrum pro avenger 16 sc with and enclosed transom but the transom wood is rotten. The transom is enclosed and welded closed. It looks like a big job i am from canada and would cost a lot to have it done professionally. I was looking into doing it myself. I do not own a welder so was looking for away to reseal the transom without welding it back. I will grind out the top of the transom and take out the old rotten wood then put new sealed wood in. Then can i just take sheet metal bent at 90 degrees and rivet it back on with marine sealant underneath. Or would i have to weld the old weld spots back it is only welded on the corners.

 

[GA_Boater]

Welcome aboard.

Opening the top of the transom and the rest of what you said should be OK. If you cut the top on the rear side and bend it back toward the bow, after the wood is replaced, bend it back and use some aluminum angle to cover what hopefully will be a slit.

Can you take a few pictures in case there are better ideas once we see it?

 

[R.Miller]

Welcome aboard.

Opening the top of the transom and the rest of what you said should be OK. If you cut the top on the rear side and bend it back toward the bow, after the wood is replaced, bend it back and use some aluminum angle to cover what hopefully will be a slit.

Can you take a few pictures in case there are better ideas once we see it?

that sounds like it would work i would still have to grind the old welds and the pictures say they are too big to upload

 

[GA_Boater]

Click on Forum Help in the sig below and look at the Photo Tutorial. That should show you how to add pics.

Not sure about cutting welds, that's where pics will help.

 

[R.Miller]

Click on Forum Help in the sig below and look at the Photo Tutorial. That should show you how to add pics.

Not sure about cutting welds, that's where pics will help.

I am a brand new member so i will need 3 posts first i will post photos after that

 

[GA_Boater]

You made the quota. :smile:

 

[ahicks]

I've done a couple now, and the welding has been about 100 bucks both times. One had to be welded all the way across the top. That welder (in Florida where this happens frequently) suggest next time I cut the entire outer panel off (easily done with an angle grinder) and let him make me an entire transom from alum. that uses no wood, and weld that in place! IMHO, that's how it should have been done in the first place.

 

[R.Miller]

You made the quota. :smile:

It still won't compress my files says the file is to big

 

[SkaterRace]

It still won't compress my files says the file is to big

use imgur it is great

 

[crazy charlie]

once you get the transom open and rotted wood removed,you can back fill with a lightweight/hi strength epoxy that is made specifically for old transoms.Look on youtube at "restoring a mako " or something like that.Shows the entire process.Charlie

 

[jbcurt00]

I dont think that applies to an aluminum boat Charlie

 

[R.Miller]

Click on Forum Help in the sig below and look at the Photo Tutorial. That should show you how to add pics.

Not sure about cutting welds, that's where pics will help.

Here are some pictures of the transom and how it is sealed right now

 

[R.Miller]

 

[R.Miller]

 

[Old Ironmaker]

Hi fellow Canuck. You have come to the right place for the best Marine advice anywhere in the World. 1st don't replace the top cap with anything steel, steel rusts then will leak, always aluminim or glass if a glass boat. I have done 3 transom replacements over the last few winters for friends. Like GA-Boater suggested scarf off and then bend the existing alum. cap back then fold it back over once done and bite the bullet and pay to get it welded, it's worth it to do it right. Yes there are other ways to reseal it but welding is 100% the best procedure. Sealing well the top of the new marine plywood and all opennings with 3M-5200 and letting it cure before welding is something I insist on doing. Again it sure isn't cheap up here, I go over the boarder to get mine. Cheap or inexpensive are not words associated with boats. Please maintain well that 40HP Force, not the best reputation for O/B's but are fine if you do your maintenance often and well. Having a boat ain't cheap. Good luck Canuck.

 

[Scott Danforth]

de-rig

carefully cut the welds

pull back the top cap

dig out the old wood

replace the wood

put back the top cap

go to your local radiator shop or marina or local welder and have them weld it.

 

[SkaterRace]

While you might not like everyone's response to weld it because it costs it is honestly the best course of action. Think of it this way, if you don't then in 5 years there is a chance that you will have to redo this all again. Does the weld seem that expensive if it lasts but 5200 will only be good for 5 years at best?