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News from
Island Coast Boat Works |
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Is your Boat
Transom Weak
By Richard Strauss
for Marina & Boatyard Today |
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One of the most prominent problems we see at
Island Coast Boat Works Inc. is weak or severely deteriorated transoms.
Once this condition starts, it progresses and causes additional damage and
accelerated weakness to the transom. Depending on the type of boat, a weak
or bad transom can be caused by a number of different factors. Some of
these factors can be common to all types of boats, and some are unique to
specific types of boats.
Since outboards comprise the majority of boats that are sold, they have
the highest percentage of owners. One item that is common to most
outboards that can lead to a weak or bad transom includes, engine mounting
bolts that were not properly sealed to the transom. Splash well drains
that were not sealed or are split and broken, can also allow water to
enter the transom area. Water can enter the transom area through severe
cracks in the gel coat or the laminate itself or through the addition of
any accessories or field mounted options below the water line. If these
items were not properly caulked, water can enter the transom and initiate
the deterioration process. Another important thing to remember in outboard
applications, is the boat manufacturers maximum horsepower recommendation.
If a larger engine or engines are installed, the transom will be subjected
to higher loads and this can lead to premature weakening of the transom or
total transom failure. On older boats if you are considering repowering
with a 4 stroke engine(s), you also need to verify that the transom can
accommodate the additional weight and torque for these types of engines.
Stern drives are probably the second most popular type of pleasure craft.
Because of their design, they have unique features that can cause
potential transom problems if the outdrive transom shield was not properly
installed when the boat was initially built. Since most of the outdrive is
below the water line, proper sealing of the unit is mandatory to ensure
that water will not enter the transom area. The core of the transom can
act as a sponge, should there be water intrusion. Also, if the outdrive
transom shield has been removed for servicing and the seal has been broken
between the outdrive and the transom, leakage will occur. Therefore, it is
suggested that these two mating surfaces be properly resealed before the
outdrive is reinstalled. All rubber boots and correcting hoses must be
crack free and properly installed to eliminate any potential leakage.
Inboards also have their areas that can create possible water leaks
leading to water damage of the transom. One major area that can cause
water to enter the transom is the exhaust outlets. Since most exhaust
outlets are below or partially below the water line, they must be properly
sealed and be leak free. Even if the outlets are on the sides of the boat
they also require proper sealing. Many inboards include swim platforms
that are mounted to the transom. Usually the mounting points are in two
locations. The main platform mounting edge usually bolts directly to the
transom. All of these mounting bolts must be properly sealed. Support
brackets may be used, and these usually mount underneath the swim platform
at the rear and also attached to the transom itself. All of these bolt
locations must also be properly sealed to prevent any leaks.
Items that can be common to all types of boat designs that can cause water
to enter a transom if not properly sealed include; transom mounted depth
finder transducers, speedometer pick-ups, and trim tabs.
How do you know if your boat is suspect, or a potential candidate for a
weak or damaged transom
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
If you want to inspect your transom, the following list will help
determine if a problem exists.
· Are sections of the transom fatter or wider than the normal width?
· Do any areas of the transom look or feel spongy?
· Are their any open cracks in the fiberglass material of the transom?
· Are stress cracks evident around the transom, especially in outboard
applications?
· Is water leaking from any areas of the transom?
· Is there discoloration or rust type stains on the gel coat, especially
around fittings?
· Is it obvious that a sealing agent was not used around fittings,
especially those below water?
· Does the transom seem squashed, especially around outboard mounting
bolts or plates?
· Will the transom move, if the outboard or outdrive is lifted up or down?
· Have modifications or accessories been added to the transom and not
properly sealed?
· Has the outdrive been removed and not properly resealed?
· Has the boat been repowered recently and the transom modified and
resealed properly?
· Is the drain bushing in the splash guard system split, causing leaks?
TRANSOM REPAIRS
If you feel that your boat has a transom that is suspect, and may require
repair, we would suggest that you have it inspected by a reputable
fiberglass repair facility. Preferably, you want to select a company that
implements all repairs in accordance with the American Boat and Yacht
Council (ABYC) and U.S. Coast Guard standards. You should also confirm
that repair facility carries adequate insurance, and also has Workman
Compensation. Requesting letters of reference and checking with the Better
Business Bureau can also aid you in your selection of the best repair
facility. Confirm that the company is properly licensed to perform the
type of work you require. Lastly, demand a written estimate including a
detailed listing including all of the procedures that are required to
correct your specific problem. Make sure that additional items can not be
added to the original estimate without your written approval. If a repair
facility recommends a procedure for repair it is recommended that the
entire repair be completed rather than proceeding with a partial repair
which may lead to future problems. For a transom repair it is also
suggested that you consider using one of the new composite materials.
Replacement with composite material for a typical 25’ boat adds
approximately $300.00.
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