[brianct12]

Bill,
You might not see much wood when you remove the cap. At least on the later 80's boats I have seen, Wellcraft wraps fiberglass (and gel coat) up and over the top of the transom notch. Only a small separation exists - between the fiberglass skin of the outer transom and the inner liner. Your situation doesnt sound good and the damage is probably already done. However, if it were me, I wouldnt take any action just yet. Keep a close eye all the time ... and look for signs of weakness and deterioration of the transom (cracking). Force the issue - have someone stand on the motor L/U and look for flexing or movement - inside the bildge and out. I wouldnt consider repair work unless you see some actual signs of damage. However, if you use your boat offshore most of the time - maybe that warrants repair.