Add on fins under jon boat water tight?

[jspringator]

My 1990 Polar Kraft 14' Jon boat has two "fins" riveted to the floor of the boat. I guess these fins add directional stability, or could be used for beaching the boat without touching the actual hull. Are they supposed to be watertight? Mine have gaps at the front of the boat where they begin, and weld cracks throughout. The boat doesn't leak a drop.

 

[Sanguinius]

Re: Add on fins under jon boat water tight?

Do they actually penetrate the hull anywhere? Or are they tack welded?

 

[jspringator]

Re: Add on fins under jon boat water tight?

They are riveted on the hull. Added ONTO the hull.

 

[dimock44]

Re: Add on fins under jon boat water tight?

I'd like to see some pictures of that.

 

[burroak]

Re: Add on fins under jon boat water tight?

My 1990 Polar Kraft 14' Jon boat has two "fins" riveted to the floor of the boat. I guess these fins add directional stability, or could be used for beaching the boat without touching the actual hull. Are they supposed to be watertight? Mine have gaps at the front of the boat where they begin, and weld cracks throughout. The boat doesn't leak a drop.

If they are like those on most aluminum boats, they are not water tight. There is no purpose for them being so. As a matter of fact, in colder climates, water left in them will freeze and expand causing possible damage to the "fins" or the bottom of the boat. I have drilled a small hole at the lowest point and before storing for the winter, make sure that they ar open.

 

[jspringator]

Re: Add on fins under jon boat water tight?

If they are like those on most aluminum boats, they are not water tight. There is no purpose for them being so.

Thats what I thought, but I have never owned an aluminum boat before. Thanks.