I have found that transoms that seem sturdy but have a breach with moisture are normally rotten. The only true way Ive found thru research is to probe the transom with a drill. What you look for is clean wood shavings if you find dark"dirt" consistency then its obviously rotten core material. good luck on your repairs and welcome to the site, there is a wealth of knowledge on here and these guys have basiclly talked me thru a whole rebuild. it seems the modo on here is ask and you shall recieve. lol!!!