new 23' 1975 owner- a few questions?

[ScottM]

Brandon,
Welcome to the site. That piece of aluminum was probably put there as support for a questionable transom when the boat was repowered. I've personally seen many boats with a similar setup, and although not the right way to do things, it works when properly mounted. If the transom seems solid enough and the plate is sealed, use the boat this season and then make a punch list of things to change/repair for the off-season. With that said, in this neck of the woods, a transom redo will run anywhere from $3-5K depending on the shop and the method (replace from inside or outside the hull). To do a bracket properly, you'll have to redo the transom anyway, so the bracket route will be more $$.

Regarding bunk vs. roller, I like the simplicity and support characteristics of a bunk trailer, but here in New England a roller can't be beat for versatility. I deal with 8-10' (11+ with full/new moon) tide changes here in Mass. and a roller trailer is a huge asset when the tide is low at the ramp. Down your way the tide doesn't fluctuate as much, so a bunk may work well for you. I suppose if you're using the same ramp(s) over and over, you'll know what they're like at various tide stages, so again a bunk could be the ticket. Bunks are also nice because they don't cost as much as a roller setup.

Where do you fish out of in RI?