Possible Transom Issues?

[jdupree]

I have noticed a little place near the cap of the transom.  It is not a crack but looks to be like a little "indention".  The transom appears to be as strong as an "ox".  You can bounce on the lower unit of the motor and the transom has no flex at all.  The transom has very few holes in it other than the motor, swim platform, and transducer.  These areas appear to be sealed very well.  

I just wanted to post a couple of pictures for opinions.  Just look right below the white on the cap and you should see what I am talking about.  I thought that I have read in several threads that Aquasport had a problem with the transom cap "cracking"

I don't feel like this is an immediate concern but might be later on down the road.  Thanks,

[John Jones]

Transom cap seperation is not unusual on lots of boats.  Long term cure would be to gouge out a large "V" groove and fill with thickened epoxy.  Short term I would stuff it with 3M 4000UV or duct tape ;) just to keep water out.

NOTE:  I am no expert but this has worked in the past for me.

[jdupree]

Thanks for the info.  At this point there is nothing to fix.  It just has a little "indention" right now.  It might get worse, or it may just stay like that for years.  Just wanted to see if anyone has run accross this.

[rsh19904]

just saw that my transom has about 1/16-1/8in. flex     not bad but man the aqua is looking good again  

[JimCt]

Looks like a crack from this end and it's right where maximum stress from the motor is concentrated.  Takes only about .005" - .010" displacement for gelcoat to break.  Simplest way to investigate is to drill two or three 1/4" holes halfway through from the outside of the transom at the bottom, near the garboard drain.  If there are problems brewing, that's the birthplace.

[jdupree]

Jim,

Are you talking about drilling the hole at the very bottom of the transom near where you put the plug in   If that is where you are talking about, I guess when I drill the hole,  will I be looking for water to come out or what

[LilRichard]

You'd be looking to see the color of the wood shavings that come out.  Light brown and dry, it's all good.  Dark brown / black and wet, let's start talking about options.

[jdupree]

I see what you are saying but where do I drill again

[LilRichard]

Jim was suggesting near the drain plug, because that is where a lot of transom issues begin.  I would suggest a few samples from around the transom (near other thru hulls, etc).  

When you're done- you need to fill the holes correctly with thickened resin to avoid making matters worse.  If you need help with "how-to" we can give further details.

[jdupree]

Jim was suggesting near the drain plug, because that is where a lot of transom issues begin.  I would suggest a few samples from around the transom (near other thru hulls, etc).  

When you're done- you need to fill the holes correctly with thickened resin to avoid making matters worse.  If you need help with "how-to" we can give further details.

Thanks   I think I will drill a couple right below the black waterline stripe so it will be much easier to conceal once I plug the holes since there is bottom paint there.  Trying to think positive, if the wood turns out to be dry, don't worry with it right now and keep riding

[JimCt]

If it's dry you're good to go.  Either way, seal up the crack you see.  If wood is wet, you have water intrusion from four possible sources: motor mounting bolt holes, garboard drain fitting, scupper thimbles or the the crack.  Needless to say, keep a sharp eye on that transom for any changes.

[Bygracealone]

So how did it turn out? Just curious.  Hope all is well...

[aqua70]

How did you make out with the transome?

[jdupree]

Just decided to leave the transom alone for now unless it gets worse.  Took a couple of screws out of the transducer cord running down the back of the transom.  No water came out.  I think the transom is still plenty solid, but like many other Aquasports the cap will crack over time.

I will most likely address this during the winter and go ahead and get the transom done anyway.  Will just have to wait and see.

[RickK]

If it ain't broke.....