Editing Openai/681ff321-b350-8005-836e-b02aaee287ee (section)

=== Assistant: Yeah—your assessment sounds spot on, and this is a known issue on pod-style outboard brackets like the ones on your Cut… ===
Yeah—your assessment sounds spot on, and this is a known issue on pod-style outboard brackets like the ones on your Cutwater 32CB. The key here is that those pods are not part of the structural hull, but are often glass-overlaid and bonded with sealant or bedding compound where they meet the transom and stringers. Over time—especially with flex, trailering, or wave pounding—that joint can separate.

===== - The sealant or bedding compound (likely 3M 5200, Sikaflex, or similar) has likely failed. =====
* The joint is now weeping water under pressure, such as from hose spray or while underway in following seas.
* Because those pods are hollow but sealed, they can collect water, causing buoyancy and balance issues or pump cycling.

===== #### =====
* Clean and dry the seam thoroughly.
* Reseal it with 3M 5200 Fast Cure or Sikaflex 291 LOT (lot = long open time).
* You may need to mask the seam line for a cleaner application.

This works, but isn’t a permanent fix, because the underlying flex/load issue is still there.

====== - If you're comfortable removing some cosmetic gelcoat or rubber molding at the seam: 1. Grind out a 1/4" V-groove at the failed seam. 2. Fill with epoxy thickened with colloidal silica, topped with fiberglass tape or mat. 3. Seal and paint with matching gelcoat. ======

This reinforces the joint and prevents water intrusion, but it's a moderate DIY fiberglass job—likely within your skillset.

====== If this becomes a recurring issue and you plan to keep the boat long-term, consider: ======
* Adding mechanical fasteners through the pod flange into the transom to support the adhesive bond.
* Internal sealing: Filling part of the pod cavity with 2-part closed-cell foam to prevent water pooling.
* Drain or inspection port: Adding a small deck plate on top of each pod to inspect and drain as needed.

===== If you’re looking for a balance of effectiveness and ease, I'd: =====
# Dry the seam.
# Force 5200 or Sikaflex deep into it using a caulking gun and gloved fingers.
# Monitor after heavy trailering or wave activity.

Want a parts list or diagram mockup showing the seam and reinforcement options?