New owner - Transom replacement needed?

[74Lund]

Hello,

I recently acquired a free 74 Lund Fish & Ski (aluminum). Being new to this forum, I see a lot of topics regarding deck and transom replacement on older boats. I do have a plan to replace the deck in the next year or so (seems fairly solid other than the spots where seats were mounted. Holes seems to have a bit of dry rot). However, I am debating doing a transom replacement.

I have had it on the water and have not "noticed" an issue.

The question is this; How do you know if the transom needs replacement? It feels solid. I have a 70 hp Merc on there now and I don't notice any movement or flex in the transom. I have stood behind the stern with both hands on the transom and given it a good push/pull and from what I can tell it seems solid.

I just want to make sure the family is safe and outboard isn't going to be a sunken treasure!

 

[IVAZ]

Re: New owner - Transom replacement needed?

Welcome to iboats.
The best way to check the transom for rot is to drill a hole in it. Dry wood particles equals a solid transom. Wet wood particles means it?s on its way out. Mush means it?s long gone. Pushing and pulling with no flex is a very good sign that it?s still in good condition.
Post this question in the restoration section and you will get a better answer.

EDIT: You may need more than one hole to get an accurate condition of the transom. Dont forget to reseal the holes.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: New owner - Transom replacement needed?

Replacing the transom on an aluminum boat is so not a big deal that I feel that if you are at all suspect, you should just go ahead and replace it.

 

[halas]

Re: New owner - Transom replacement needed?

What size boat?

 

[Nandy]

Re: New owner - Transom replacement needed?

Welcome to iboats.
The best way to check the transom for rot is to drill a hole in it. Dry wood particles equals a solid transom. Wet wood particles means it?s on its way out. Mush means it?s long gone. Pushing and pulling with no flex is a very good sign that it?s still in good condition.
Post this question in the restoration section and you will get a better answer.

EDIT: You may need more than one hole to get an accurate condition of the transom. Dont forget to reseal the holes.

If you do this process is better to do it from the inside. Still, seal those holes. You dont need a large bit either. A 1/8 will show the problem. I would not use anything larger than 1/4. You can buy a wood rod to match the drill bit and then hammer the rod in the hole. Then apply marintex/gelcoat/fiberglass or whatever you like most....
Hope you dont find anything but dry wood!!

 

[Silver Heels]

Re: New owner - Transom replacement needed?

Am I the only one here who thinks it is crazy to drill additional holes in a transom just to see if the wood is wet? Sure it might be the easiest way, but I try to keep the holes in the hull to a minimum. Plus, I'd think you'd have to drill quite a few holes to get a truely good picture of whats going on. So, for heaven's sake, don't go punching more holes in your boat. If it feels soft, remove an existing bolt or something and go in that way. Or take the transom cap off. Or if you are unsure, go ahead and replace it.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: New owner - Transom replacement needed?

That 70 hp weighs in at around... 268 lbs. when the boat is on the trailer shake the motor and look at the transom. It should be rock solid. The lund is aluminum and a qualty rig..... can you see the transom wood inside ? Just poke it a bit with a screwdriver and if it is rotted you will know. No need to drill any holes when you are dealing with an aluminum boat transom. Easy replacement........ a whole heck of alot easier then the decking.

 

[74Lund]

Re: New owner - Transom replacement needed?

Thanks to all for the replies. I did remove two bolts that ran through the transom and the wood looks perfect. I also shook the boat and did not see any give in the transom where the motor is mounted. Looks like I should be okay!