TOPIC: Chrysler SATELITE Model 316

I have a Chrysler fiberglas boat that needs a new transom and the flotation cell dried out and the foam replaced. When I got the boat it was powered by an Eventude 85 HP out board. The boat is rated for 75 HP, maybe that explains the broken transom. On one occasion we had a storm come up while the boat was moored a short distance off shore. When it swamped is sank immediately and rested upside down in about 15 ft of water. The boat always seemed heavy but with the extra HP it seemed ok. The hull structure seems ok except for the transom.

As a beginer I need some advice on the following:

I assume I need to build a cradle to hold the aft section
in the correct shape while the transom is being replaced?

Do I have to remove the top half of the hull. If I do,
how will I replace it?

When I replace the transom, should it be reenforced
if I want to continue using the same 85 HP motor? Some of
the transom failure was structural resulting from the use
of a larger motor. Much of the damage was also due to
rotting of the core material.

Perhaps, with no major changes to the transom design
I am ok, because I will be reducing the weight of the boat
when I replace the flotation?

If a boat like mine has a functioning flotation cell, what
would be expected to happen when it is swamped? Mine not
only sank to the bottom but flipped upside down, damaging the
motor schroud and wind shield. Is the flotation there to aid
salvage of could it be expected to provide enough flotation
for survival of the occupants. Of course life vests should
be worn by each occupant anyway.

I look forward to hearing from those who have been there.

Sounds like a good project. Removing the deck can make a transom replacement much easier depending on the design of the boat. The deck is probably fastened by bolts or staples, maybe some fiberglass tape. Cradles and other forms are great to hold the deck/hull in shape while working- refitting the two pieces together can be the biggest challenge. Good luck and be sure to post some photos if you can.