I am down here in Texas as we speak looking at a 06 38 Lightening and just wanted to get some input on the transom and stringer situation on these boats. Was this particular year a problem one? I will only be here for 1 more day , any help would be greatly appreciated! Bilge is filthy and has some water in it. Doesn't look like has been very well cared for. Kinda sucks because engines/drives and hrs. are great. Boat runs and drives perfect, just needs some cleaning up!

All boats are susceptible to that type of rot. One of my boats is is currently getting a new transom and partial stringer replacement. Not the one I thought would be rotted though. If you're concerned I have bought a pinless moisture meter from Home Depot and it did correlate good and bad readings that were consistent from a professional survey. If you find uncomfortable spots you could negotiate from there. Unless you are already buying it right.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/General-...-MM9/303124004

I was thinking about finding a home depot and seeing if they had anything in stock. Did that meter work pretty good?

On my way to home depot!

It correlated pretty good. Some spots near exhaust and drain plug measured 15-21% and in the middle of the transom measured 8%. There was a discernable difference. Drill holes confirmed.

I would be looking for differences.

Just picked one up, heading back to the boat. Thanks for the help!

Just got done with my inspection. Turns out transom and stringers are gone! Unfortunate because I really liked the way the boat ran and handled.

unfortunate, long trip for a soggy boat, what was the owners reaction

Is the boat “take it easy”?

When I bought my boat that needed the transom the owner and I split the difference on the price of a transom. He deducted it from the price.