My un scientific approach always has worked for me. AGE how old is it?? If the transom is 20-25 years old and it is made of wood chances are very good it needs to be redone. My outboard saltwater motor approach is, if the motor is 10 years old or more its about time to replace. Yes there are always exceptions to this general rule but wood transoms rot and outboards is saltwater just crap out for one reason or another. After 45 years of saltwater fishing I have never sunk or needed to be towed in. Boats are like Airplanes you dont want them to break First before you fix or replace parts.
FellowShip
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Just for the Grins
Official Antique Classic SeaCraft Owner