Need to replace transom in a 1976 19-6 aquasport I just bought

[A22angler]

Just bought a 19-6 aquasport cc that needs a new transom, but want to get by with the one I have til striper season is over. The last owner put a piece of 3/4 plywood on the transom to support a 115 hp mercury motor. It looks strong but I don,t know if I can trust it. It is bolted all the way around and glued and sealed. what do u guys think,, I will be fishing in the Delaware River and Bay.

[gman 82 aquasport]

I've never seen one that was reinforced with a piece of plywood I have seen quite a few that have had a piece of 1/4 inch aluminum or stainless bent to go over the transom from the inside over the top and down past the bottom engine mount bolts. They seem to buy you some time. Would trust the metal more than wood. I would still keep a good eye on it for flexing and cracking..

[wingtime]

Tilt you motor up as far as it goes. Get a big guy  to grab the foot of the motor and push up and down on it with all his weight. Watch from the side to how much the transom flexes. Then make a decision. I think you will find it is unsafe to run it as is. Sorry for the news.

[A22angler]

You say push up and down to see how much it flexes. How much flex is too much. I would like to get some striper fishing in before they leave and then start on the transom. This is all nedw to me, so I need some help. Thanks

[love2fish]

the CYA answer is: any flex is too much flex. but use your best judgment- if it flexes simply from "bouncing" the motor as you trip it up or down- its not safe. Given the info you have told us- it's probably soaked and mulch inside the transom skin. The fish will be there after you fix it, or borrow a friend's boat- and fix the transom now before we something dangerous happens.
feel free to post a video of the transom/motor if you want.

[Galvestonian]

  I wouldn't risk it. have never ever seen plywood. would have a slightly higher degree of comfort with a stainless or aluminum plate. fyi, unless you plan on repairing yourself, they're around $3500-4000, at least in SE Texas.