[OspreyVic]

OK, not claiming to have all the answers, but here is my solution.

When we installed the Raymarine optional high performance transom mount transducer kit we created our first water intrusion problem. The kit includes the retractable transom mounting kit and utilizes the M256 High Performance Depth transducer. This thing is huge. In order to install it correctly, we had to remove the starboard transom drain ball scupper. We did utilize one of the included wedges and four stainless steel bolts as spacers so that water could exit the starboard side of the boat.

We understood that if we had a severe problem of water entering the boat at this location, we would have to go back solve the problem.

The solution that worked for us came from Specialty Pool Products. In the northern part of this great country, folks have to winterize their pools. One of the parts that many use is called a winterizing pipe plug.

These rubber expandable plugs are used for sealing fittings during winter shut-down for pools. Simply push the properly sized plug into the fitting or pipe and turn the wing nut clockwise. As you tighten this wing nut, the plug body will expand putting pressure between the plug and the pipe or fitting. This pressure fit makes for a watertight application. They are inexpensive and work great. Make sure you purchase the correct size plug for the job.

To solve the problem that we created, we purchased two Winterizing 1 1/4" pipe plugs, Item Number: WNA TEC WP7 with today’s price of $3.09 each.

Now to help solve the problem of water getting past the transom wells and into the fish boxes, we needed to move to the next step. We removed the 4 screws that held the rubber flap over the hole that goes from the transom well to the floor of the boat. Measuring the opening from the transom well side, we found the hole was 1 3/4 inches wide. We called Specialty Pool Products and ordered two Winterizing 2" FTP plugs, Item Number: WNA TEC WP12 with today’s price of $3.59 each.

Because our first ones work so well, I also ordered a spare of each size, just in case I lose one. That will save me money in the long run because while they do not charge for shipping, they do have a handling fee of $8.95 per order.

We understand that we will need to remove these plugs to get any water out of our boat, but this should help the water from getting in over and thru the transom.

If an owner was to order three of each size plug so they have a spare, the total cost should be $28.99 delivered to your door.

The web site for the above products is: http://www.poolproducts.com/-c-WNCWNTPLG-FNM-92.htm or you can call them and ask for Debbie.

Hope this helps.

Please remember. I caused the problem. The boat did not come from the factory with the problem. In my case, I am just fixing a problem I caused.