First off. I've been a long time observer of the Champ forum and the valuable information I've gotten from this forum is a big reason why I decided to purchase my Champ in 2008.

I have a 2007 183 w/ 150 Yamaha VMax. Last fall while running back to the launch with my son in one fo the canals by my home, I struck a floating log. I was running in the middle of the canal (which is about 10ft deep). I was running about 47mph (GPS) and frankly am very lucky that neither my son or I got hurt... We were wearing our life jackets and I always run with the kill switch on.

Needless to say I needed a new transom. Surprisingly it does not appear to myself or folks Ive talked to that there is anything wrong with the motor. It looks like I should get the boat back early next week. I spoke with the folks doing the repiar recently and wasnt completely sure of some of the terminolgy he was using and thought I'd open it up to the very knowledgable folks here what the following terms are referring to in reference to transom construction:

"Knee Braces"
"Strong back"

I apologise in advance if these terms are abit elementary. I guess I havent done a very good job at self educating myslef in bass boat construcion 101. I've done some searching on the internet, but cant seem to find any specific information.

Thanks for the help!!