dried out transom seams, what to do?

[JMAC]

I just removed the rudder post and am ready to do something about filling the seams. They were caulked, I've reefed them out, they are open clear through as much as 3/32". The boat has been out of the water for three years. I'd like to get som CPES on there. Do you think I should be wetting down the wood to close up the seams a bit, then caulk. Or just CPES and caulk...or...what?

[Dave Carnell]

I have had success swelling transom seams tight by painting the wood liberally with ethylene glycol auto antifreeze.

[JMAC]

Well, I went and took your advice and soaked the oak w/ antifreeze. Chemicals r chemicals. I had good results with the green stuff on the windows in my house. Time will tell....