Transom skin repairs

Discussion in 'Fiberglass and Composite Boat Building' started by davels1, Aug 1, 2015.

  1. davels1
    Joined: Aug 2015
    Posts: 1
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    Location: USA

    davels1 New Member

    Hi all, first post. I recently bought a boat and the engine needed a little TLC so I pulled it off. Since I have it off now is the time to touch up the outer transom to properly repair old holes and rough spots. Problem is I don't know for sure if I should use epoxy or polyester, gel coat or paint, etc. Some areas are only superficial and others are older repairs that seem water tight, but ugly. I'd like to refinish the outside to match the condition of the rest of the hull, which has none of these imperfections, even if it is a bit chalky on one side. That will be resolved later. I'd appreciate some advice on how to tackle the project.

    Here is where the majority of the work needs to be done.
    https://www.dropbox.com/s/hm2xg5vpk2l7i3m/Photo Aug 01, 12 23 15 PM.jpg?dl=0

    A close-up of one area
    https://www.dropbox.com/s/ce27nlz4e0ol0mg/Photo Aug 01, 12 23 30 PM.jpg?dl=0

    Removing the transom top trim and looking down, this is what I see - it is 2.75" thick. The green inner layer is smooth and very hard. Seems to hold a screw very well.
    https://www.dropbox.com/s/sfrsxxzazy4rstv/Photo Jul 30, 3 29 19 PM.jpg?dl=0

    https://www.dropbox.com/s/m6wt4rlprk2a58j/Photo Jul 30, 3 29 01 PM.jpg?dl=0
     
  2. gonzo
    Joined: Aug 2002
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    Location: Milwaukee, WI

    gonzo Senior Member

    It would be better if you attach the photos using the "go advanced" feature.
     
  3. jorgepease
    Joined: Feb 2012
    Posts: 1,620
    Likes: 51, Points: 48, Legacy Rep: 75
    Location: Florida

    jorgepease Senior Member

    Doesn't look too bad - for the holes repair ... an epoxy bog, remove the cracking gelcoat sand and fill and fair and then gelcoat.

    If the wood is rotted, then you have to decide if your going to grind it all out and replace.
     

  4. FMS
    Joined: Jul 2011
    Posts: 611
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    Location: united states

    FMS Senior Member

    Remove the old caulk or any loose filler. Check the wood around the holes. Poke it with a screw driver or point to check that it's firm and not breaking down. Then fill with a thickened epoxy mixture. Repeat if needed to get it flush. Sand it smooth and sand the whole transom lightly. Painting is easier than gelcoat. If the corner between hull and transom is fairly sharp you could pick a line and paint the transom. It won't be as good looking as blending in the gelcoat to what's on the hull. It's substantially easier though when you don't have gelcoat experience and would be fine for a boat that's used.
     
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