Lower Transom

While waiting on some parts to complete the flip over rig, we decided to remove the lower transom plank.  We have known for quite a while the lower transom bow has delaminated, and were expecting a little rot in this area. Inspection of the port cheek area from inside the boat did not look bad.

The worst area of delamination of the transom bow is starboard, between the keel and engine stringer.  Most of the black areas are buildup of grease and dirt.

Exterior inspection was a little different.  Under the transom guard are some attempts to repair or at least slow the leaking.  This was the first indicator there may be more trouble than initially thought.  It is difficult to see in the photo, but the lower transom plank is pushed out of position about a quarter of inch at the bottom.  In addition, the topside plank has a substantial gap at the seam.

So we dug out all of the putty and bungs covering the screws to remove the lower transom plank.  A few extra screws were added at some point in her life to the port cheek area in an attempt to “stabilize” the area.  There were about 10 screws that did not back out, they just spun.

With the plank off, we got our first view into the actual work needed to make the boat safe again for use.

The transom bow and cheek are quite rotted, more than the internal visual inspection had revealed.  These hidden areas need thorough inspection and poking with an ice pick to reveal rot, especially when you are looking to purchase a boat.



It looks like we will be purchasing a little more white oak for frame repairs than originally anticipated.