How to Replace the Transom on a Small Boat
The transom of a boat is the flat section at the rear or stern and is where an outboard engine is attached to the boat. If the transom on your boat is made from wood it may start to deteriorate or rot over time. It can also crack it the boat has sustained damage. When this happens, you need to replace or effectively repair the transom. You can do this by using a fiberglass filler material.
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Things You'll Need
- Fiberglass filler
- Felt tip marker
- Reciprocating saw
- Chisel
- Hammer
- Plywood
- Cinder blocks
- Mold release spray
- 5-gallon bucket
- Paddle attachment
- Power drill
- Rubber mallet
- Plastic scraper
- Marine epoxy putty
Instructions
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1
Cut around the edge of the transom with the reciprocating saw. Take the top cap off of the transom and set it aside.
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2
Remove the rotten wood or bad section of the transom which lies between the fiberglass cap and base by digging it out with the chisel and hammer.
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3
Place a piece of plywood against the inside wall of the transom. This is the section that faces the inside of the boat. Brace the plywood against the transom with two or three cinder blocks.
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4
Apply mold release spray to the outside of the transom. This is to assist with the removal of any excess fiberglass filler.
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5
Open the can of fiberglass filler and add the required amount of catalyst. Mix the filler material with a wooden stick, such as a paint stirrer, for at least a minute.
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6
Pour the mix into the transom. Tap on the outside of the transom with the rubber mallet to remove any air bubbles. Allow the fiberglass filler to cure for at least six hours. Remove excess filler from the outside of the transom using the plastic scraper.
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7
Apply marine epoxy putty to the bottom of the transom top cap that you removed in step 1. Place the cap back on the transom.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Apply the fiberglass filler to any gaps between the top cap and the transom.
