How to Build a Transom From Metal
- 1). Run a tape measure along the back of the boat where the transom is located. Record the measurement for the length and width of the transom. Lay a piece of 3/4-inch plywood down on two sawhorses so one sawhorse is positioned on each side.
- 2). Draw the exact dimensions that you measured on the sheet of plywood with a pencil. This will be where you will cut the material. Line up the blade of a circular saw to the mark on the edge of the plywood.
- 3). Push the blade of the saw up against the plywood. Press the trigger and turn on the saw. Move the blade of the saw along the line you drew and carefully cut the piece of plywood to the desired shape of the transom. Turn off the saw and remove the cut piece of plywood.
- 4). Sand down the plywood with medium-grade sandpaper. Move the sandpaper in a circular motion over the area where you made the cut. Lay a piece of sheet metal down on the sawhorses and set the cut piece of plywood directly on top. Outline around the plywood on the sheet metal with a black marker and remove the plywood from the sheet metal.
- 5). Loosen the bolt in the middle of the circular saw blade by hand and remove the blade used to cut the plywood. Slide a metal blade on and tighten it down in place. Cut the piece of sheet metal, just like you did the plywood. Set it directly on top of the plywood and verify that they are the same size.
- 6). Slide a tube of construction adhesive into a caulk gun and cut off the tip of the nozzle at a 45-degree angle with a utility knife. Press the trigger and run a bead along the sheet metal. Move the caulk gun up and down to apply a continuous bead along the surface of the metal piece.
- 7). Press the sheet metal into the plywood and run your hands over the entire surface so it can adhere in place. Let it dry for at least one hour before installing it in the boat.
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