Did I do good or am I cooked?
Hello, first time posting here, as well as first time boat owner.
I was able to get a mid 80’s Ebbtide Dyna-Trak 160 with a 90hp Johnson Engine with a trailer for $1000.
The buyer lost the key, and said it had been sitting for 2 years, but ran great the last time he used it. I tapped the hull and transom, as well as shook the engine. (as suggested by a friend) to ensure there were not any dead spots in the hull or transom, and everything sounded good. I purchased the vessel and drove it home. Make speed was 45mph and I went about 13 miles. I noticed towards the end of the drive the engine bouncing and shaking. Upon later inspection, it appears that the bottom part of the engine had cracked, or pushed through the transom.Now, if I tap on the surrounding areas, it has a sturdy high pitch sound. I also stepped on the deck (after I bought it, unfortunately) and noticed it sags and is very soft. I assume I am going to have to replace the entirety of the decking as well. I tried pulling the top engine cover off to take a look and it was really difficult to remove and appeared to have something clumped in there stopping me from pulling it off, it’s either spray foam or another bees nest. In addition to that, when I popped open the battery/fuel area it looks like there is two dead basketball sized bee’s nests.
Now, I have never owned a boat, but I’ve built cars from the frame up, and am incredibly handy and can do just anything I try to.
I guess I’m trying to figure out if I got absolutely cooked on the purchase, and what’s the best route to go for the transom?
Can I seal or do I need to remove the engine and try to reinforce the transom?
Any input would be incredibly helpful.
TIA!