transom and other stuff

I really appreciate everyones opinion here. I've tried a few things to actually determine the extent of the rot. When I yank on the lower unit of the primary, the transom does move slightly. I can't imagine it didn't do this the day it was new but I don't know. I took a bolt out of the stainless plate and inspected the wood inside the hole and it was a little dark but solid. I'd like to see under the stainless panels.
I think the idea of a full transom with a bracket intrigued me so much I may be jumping the gun, but safety really isn't something I screw with.

Maybe a professional inspection would be in order here. I can describe it all day long but you can't see it.


Mike