checking for transom rot

lots of comments about transom rot flying around out there, what is the best way to determin if it's there and how bad is it? I don't hear much about i/o's but is it found there too? how about checking the stringers?Not to many posts today, this might start some. ;)

[Brian_M]

Thanks for starting the thread, while I was dewinterizing my I/O I was wondering the same. The hull sounds good when whacked with a mallet, but below the waterline at the transom it doersn't resonate as well...structural issues or rot?? Also, on the inside of the transom, it looks like the gel coat liner has been removed...a normal practice? If a transom has rot, how long can it be let go before terminal damage is done?

[bigshrimpin]

with an outboard . . . If your transom is gone you'd know it. The transom will flex when you put the motor in forward and reverse. If you suspect that your transom is gone . . . drill a pilot hole. If black dirt comes out then it's time to fix it.

Don't forget to use epoxy to fill the hole back in.

[macojoe]

Just as BS said!! drill a few small holes and if you get some black stuff and it is wet ,,y0u will be able to tell. Then time for repair!!
Another way is to lift you motor up a bit and then grab it and try lifting it, if you can see the transom moving you are in trouble!!

[chumbucket]

Yup, what thems guyz said. With I/O's, it was more common with the old OMC outdrive's (I used to call them the "White Elephants") with the big rubber boot around the hole. That rubber boot would get cracks in it and water seepage would occur and start the damage.