Transom replacement?

[Vumad]

My buddy had a 15' Gheenoe. It's a canoe / boat hybrid if you are unfamiliar. It's about 100# and rated for a 25HP motor.

The wooden transom is rotted and needs to be replaced. I was wondering if there are any plywood alternatives we can consider. Cost is a factor but the needed piece is only about 6"x12" so a small composite board could be purchased. I looked into Coosa, which is what I believe BOB holds use as a backing, but it's made of a reinforced foam. I was concerned about this foam, and similarly the plywood, being damaged from frequent compression and release. The motor will be removed after almost every use which will contribute to compression fatigue.

Thoughts?

Here is an image of a similar model for reference...

 

[madd_dips]

We personally use mantex and nidacore composite board on all or our transom redo's. Just template and glass right over it. Wouldn't recommend anything else.
Also just completely redid a Gheenoe. Guy went all out I can send you some pics

Shoot me a PM or tx I'm pretty sure I can help you out bud.

 

[Tyler Zane]

I've replaced the transom on a few of these. I haven't seen any direct pieces to be glassed in.

I cut/grind the glass and wood out from the inside leaving just the bottom notch so the replacement transom has a resting place. My transom starts at the bottom where the old one does but goes all the way up. the side rails will have to be trimmed to lay back down flat.

Next I take 2 pieces of 3/4in marine grade plywood and resin them together. I throw a layer of chop mat in between them.

I then notch the bottom of the wood to fit the notch left in the transom and get the angles for the sides right. once it fits tight I resin it into the transom. I add a layer of chop mat between the wood and glass. I clamp that and let it cure.

Last I glass over the whole transom and glue a aluminum plate to the inside of the transom to distribute the load of the engine bracket screws in the future. I used liquid nails construction adhesive to glue the plate down.

Normally there are some holes that need to be repaired on the back too. I use polyester resin for this work, epoxy isn't necessary.

let me find some pics..

 

[Tyler Zane]

All glassed in


Aluminum plate glued down



Rails trimmed, and a quick paint job. not the best match buy kept cost down for this guy's little river boat.