True for every used boat. Transom and stringers are major structural members in a boat hull. The trouble is that both have wood inside which will rot if exposed to water. ("Dry rot" is a misnomer - the fungus needs water to do the damage). Look for areas where the water could have gotten in. Pump cut-out, drain plug area, holes for bolts, control cables etc. Remove what you can and probe the wood core with a screwdriver or awl. The best way to probe other areas for rot is to drill into the structure and see how the chips look like. Chances are most sellers will object to this. Next best field method is tapping with a plastic hammer. Compare the sound of similar areas. Anything sounding dull or hollow should be drilled. I tried an ultrasound kit borrowed from the engineering department. Cool, but the readout requires a lot of experience and patience to interpret. Anyone have any good methods?
[This message has been edited by one4me2 (edited November 02, 2001).]