Grady-white-transom-repair May 2026

Tilt your outboard up and apply downward pressure to the lower unit. Any visible movement or "smiling" (the gap opening between the motor and the transom) is a red flag.

Sand it smooth, apply fairing compound, and finish with color-matched gelcoat or paint. The Bottom Line: DIY vs. Pro grady-white-transom-repair

Chisel out the rotten wood. On older Gradys, this often turns into "mud". Tilt your outboard up and apply downward pressure

Cost-effective; extremely strong when bonded correctly. Cons: Can rot again if water penetrates the seal. apply fairing compound

Coosa Bluewater is a fiberglass-reinforced foam that is 100% rot-proof. Cons: Significantly more expensive than wood.

For a "forever" boat like a Grady, using a rot-proof core adds immense resale value and peace of mind. 🪜 The Rebuild Process at a Glance