1979 transom construction materials/methods

[Pirate0408]

I'm curious as to what materials and methods were used during construction in the 1979 models. More specifically, the transom construction. I have heard that Aquasport was one of the 'pioneers' of the use of composite materials in construction, and that other manufacturers began to follow the same practices. I'm not sure when the use of composites by Aquasport began if what I have heard is correct, or what 'parts' of the vessels were constructed using composite materials. The transom of my 1979 22-2 Family Fisherman still feels and looks sturdy, with only minimal hairline cracks in the gel-coat in the area and I am not having any problems, but now that I am considering a re-power due to the condition of the current 1997 engine, it is something that is on my mind when considering the $$ involved.  When I installed the current 1997 model engine in 2007, the installer informed me that the transom was in good shape. If I didn't know any better, I would have to assume that given the age of the boat, the transom does contain wood.

Anyone familiar with this?  

[gran398]

Hi Aubrey,

Your boat's transom is cored with AC fir plywood.


If you are going to re-power, especially with a four-stroke, you may consider a stainless plate that wraps over the transom. See Jdupree's install on Rebuilds.

Saw a refurbed Wellcraft V 20 a few days ago that had a 4S 175 Zuke installed. They had extended the stainless plate on the back of the transom almost to the waterline, and Awlgripped it black to match the engine. It looked good.

[Blue Agave]

How is the floor and the cap?  Any soft spots?  Both are  cored with wood.

[Curious]

Just hollowed my transom out, (78 22 FF, modified V). 2 sheets of 3/4" plywood with a sheet of rigid fiberglass laminated between them.  Rotten wood around any scupper, motor mount hole and drain plug, all other areas were intact and solid, but wet.  Plan to pour NidaBond Pourable Transom Compound when I can get it and the weather warms up a bit.  Check ou the thread I started in the Rebuild forum titled "78 22 FF transom rebuild".  Will post more pics and details when I do the pour, stay tuned...  Also check out Bondobill's transom thread.

[Capt. Bob]

now that I am considering a re-power due to the condition of the current 1997 engine, it is something that is on my mind when considering the $$ involved.  

Hum
Did you take this boat off the market?

[Pirate0408]

now that I am considering a re-power due to the condition of the current 1997 engine, it is something that is on my mind when considering the $$ involved.  

Hum
Did you take this boat off the market?

I haven't taken the boat off the market.  I'm more or less "torn" on what to do.

[Pirate0408]

How is the floor and the cap?  Any soft spots?  Both are  cored with wood.

All areas appear and 'feel' as they are in good shape.  No soft spots that I've found while crawling all over the top of the cabin, the deck, and the fuel tank compartment cover/cap.