I was hoping that the rudder mounts weren't leaky as I hear they often are, but it seems that's where at least the main problem is
. Due to that and some soft spots and damage in that area I think I'll have to grind out the bad parts and re-glass. Both hulls leak from these mounts, one hull has a soft spot right under the top mount and it's bad enough that the mount has pressed a divot into the fiberglass. Kind of looks like the previous owner hit something and the rudder didn't kick up correctly and instead jammed the mount into the hull.What is the general process here?
Do I glass over the holes and re-drill/tap them? If so are there any good tips to make sure I get the holes in the right place?
OR Can I wax the bolt and screw it a bit into the aluminum back then lay glass around it? I've heard this works pretty good and the glass can mechanically help keep the bolt set. I've also seen people use soda straws but it seems like this would create too much play on the bolt.
Whatever I do I want to avoid having to lift the deck to patch the transom. I've read that badly damaged transoms have forced people to put maintenance hatches in their boats back there or pull the deck up so they can get to both sides.... I really, REALLY want to avoid this.
