Subpar Transom Repair - Thoughts?

[Max_Florida]

Long story short: How big of a deal is it that there is not the proper 3/16" to 1/4" layer of fiberglass across the inside of a transom?


The long story:

I found a one man operation who agreed to redo my transom for $1900. We discussed what types of materials he was going to use(2x 3/4" marine ply) and what schedule he was going to use for the fiberglass. He wanted to go from the inside of the boat because he said he "couldn't understand how you can get a strong repair from the outside". The guy seemed honest and like he took pride in his work, so I agreed.

Fast forward two weeks and I get my boat back. I go to put on trim tabs. I drill out the 3/4" holes for the hydraulic lines(effectively taking core samples) and I find that the only thing that he put across the inside of the transom was a thin layer of roving. The sides ARE tabbed in in what appears to be a strong manner.

I spoke with the guy on the phone for 20 minutes and he basically said:

1) That's how he has always done it - that is the way it is done
2) It is not necessary to put the fiberglass on the inside
3) The repair is extremely strong and I will never have an issue with it

At this point I don't really know what to do. I don't want to have the guy "Fix it" because the likelihood that he is going to do the whole repair correctly is slim to none. Getting my money back via the legal system will be difficult as I paid in cash, and neglected to get a receipt. I also didn't have him specify the schedule he was going to use in the contract. I know I was stupid on both counts. In my defense I am usually a good judge of character and the guy came across as extremely honest and proud of his work.