How solid is the transom?
Dear friend, I'm in the process of helping a friend with her new to her 1980 E25+ and in the process, I recently sent her down to inspect and photograph the scupper drain and hose connection to the transom. Now, I realize that you have an E25 but I can't help but think that the same manufacturing processes apply in both models. Please see the attached image of the plywood backing on her transom that must be at least 1/2" or possibly 3/4" thick. That said, I also added a stainless boarding ladder to our former boat, an E25+ and for insurance and peace of mind, added two strips of 1/4" plywood as added backing plates for the four mounting bolts. Dive down into your aft bilges and take a look, I suspect you'll see something similar. Take a camera with you for future reference, you never know when you'll be glad you did. Best of luck, Glyn Judson, E31 hull #55, Marina del Rey CA