Should all Potter era transoms be replaced?

[erock]

Hi everyone. I'm contemplating buying a '78 Sceptre (outboard version) with original transom reinforced with a stainless plate. I'm wary that there may be rot and have a surveyor looking at it next week. Seems like most people with Potter era boats redo their transom. Does anyone still run their boat with the original transom? And can they last 40+ years if well taken care of?