Treating wood in a transom

[HappierWet]

I have an '83 CELEBRITY in which I am redoing the power. I already have the motor, intermediate housing, and outdrive removed. While I am cleaning the bilge, I started looking at the wooden core of the transom where the intermediate housing fits through. It's not soft, although some of the laminate is starting to seperate... maybe 1/16 to 1/8 inch deep. This is the only place on the boat ( so far) where the wood is not 'glassed.
My question is should I 'glass this while I have it apart, or is there some reason they left it undone? How about paint or some other sealer?
Everybody has been really helpful with the input on all my other questions thru this project. Probably keeping me from engineering my own mistakes.
Thanks guys

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Treating wood in a transom

if it were mine, and i plan to keep it, i would replace the transom. it has started to go, and will keep going.

 

[Stoutcat]

Re: Treating wood in a transom

Hi HappierWet,

Here's a possible thought...

If the wood is dry, solid, and the delamination is limited, you might take a look at a couple of products from Abatron: They have a wood restoration kit which consists of "LiquidWood" and "WoodEpox". These are structural-grade epoxies... I've used them both, and both are exceptional.

If you simply have a slight delamination issue, I'd suggest that you look at Abatron. If on the other hand, the transom as a whole is showing signs of coming apart, I'd say what TD said...

Just a thought.

Alan

 

[HappierWet]

Re: Treating wood in a transom

Thanks for replying guys. This is so minimal right now that I want to prevent it getting any worse. While I was fighting to get the engine out I was watching for flex or distortion in the transom. The shaft and coupler were rusted in so tight that after I removed them together I spent almost three hours with a sledge and pair of pickle forks. But that's another thread.
Anyway while I was inspecting this little bit of wood, I went in with a knfe and a pick. This seperation is very shallow and even where it is seperated itis not breking out. I think I have ruled out dry rot. I just don't want it to get any worse. I am willing to try epoxy or 'glass or other suggestions before attempting to replace the transom as it is 'glassed in very thoroughly. This is the only place where I've found bare wood. TD, you think I'm being overly optimistic? Really want to discuss options before surgery!!
Thanks again guys
Chris

 

[Mark42]

Re: Treating wood in a transom

A good test is to take a 1/4 or 3/8" drill bit and mark it with tape about 1" from the tip (assuming your transom is 1-1/2" thick) and drill some inspection holes into the transom from the inside around the opening. Both high and low, especially low. The point is to catch the wood shavings and inspect for moisture, rot (brown or dark color), mushy-ness, etc.

If the shavings come out light color and dry, then just dry the parimeter of the hole and seal with some epoxy.

If you get damp or wet wood that is light color, then consider using one of the products listed earlier, or try soaking in some anti-freeze to stop any further rot.

If the wood is wet and dark, if the bit sinks right in, then the transom needs to be replaced.

Good luck!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Treating wood in a transom

Ayuh,....

I'd grind it back to good solid wood,+ laminate,+ bring it back with some Epoxy,+ cloth...

 

[oops!]

Re: Treating wood in a transom

Ayuh,....

I'd grind it back to good solid wood,+ laminate,+ bring it back with some Epoxy,+ cloth...

heh heh heh....nuthin like a good date with a grinder and some 24 grit.....dont stop till you smell glue burning....heh heh heh

 

[SuperNova]

Re: Treating wood in a transom

What I think he is talking about, guys, is where the hole was cut through the transom for the the intermediate housing. The edges of the hole are not protected and the wood is opening up a little bit. It's not a big deal. Just clean it up and seal it up, I would say.