Stringer Inspection

[Duke01]

Question: What is the best way to determine if the stringers are wet/dry? I was considering drilling a small hole in each and then filling with 3M 5200. Or, can a moister meter be used?

I have a 1978 V20 Cuddy which had a transom rebuild 12 years ago by the previous owner, but a crack developed on the inside of the transom at the splash well. This went unchecked and the transom is wet again. So, when I replace my 1980 200 HP Merc I intend on rebuilding the transom, most likely with Carbon Core.

Just wondering if the water in the transom can make its way to the stringers (?).

Thanks Duke

[phatdaddy]

Not sure if water can migrate or not. Most stringer water gets introduced through the limber holes that allow drainage to the bilge. Not sure if the PO addressed this during transom rebuild. I would look where the stringer meets the transom and check the holes. If they are just raw wood, probably compromised

[Duke01]

Good point regarding the limber holes...I had not thought of them. That will be the first place I check in the Spring. If they are exposed, I will most likely drill a couple of small holes and see if the stringers are wet.

Thanks, Duke

[LESTERUS]

Originally Posted by duke01

question: What is the best way to determine if the stringers are wet/dry? I was considering drilling a small hole in each and then filling with 3m 5200. Or, can a moister meter be used?

I have a 1978 v20 cuddy which had a transom rebuild 12 years ago by the previous owner, but a crack developed on the inside of the transom at the splash well. This went unchecked and the transom is wet again. So, when i replace my 1980 200 hp merc i intend on rebuilding the transom, most likely with carbon core.

Just wondering if the water in the transom can make its way to the stringers (?).

Thanks duke

use something called "gatorboard" extremelly light and strong