Back on the boat!

[guitarkev77]

Hey guys,
It's been awhile since I last posted anything about my boat. It has been a crazy year, but now I am ready to get rocking on it again!

The boat is a 1967 Fiberform 16' runabout, which I have completely gutted, and removed the cap, deck, transom, and stringers. A little more grinding and I am ready to put it back together.

Long-winded introduction out of the way, I have a question for you guys.

My boat has 3 drain plug holes in the transom now. One in the splashwell, one above deck, and one below deck. My question is this: I am planning on completely glassing the deck on all sides to the hull and transom, and using two part foam underneath the deck (there was no foam when it came from the factory in '67). There is no bilge pump below deck, or gas tank, or ski locker. No water intrusion points, whatsoever. The only water intrusion point would be the below deck plug hole.

If this area is completely glassed in and water tight, effectively acting as one solid, structural member, is there a need for a below deck plug? Can I just do the topside and splashwell plugs, and eliminate the plug below deck?

I know that you guys will have some good info on why or why not.

Thanks,

Kevin

 

[sphelps]

Re: Back on the boat!

My boat drains are set up the same way . I see no reason that you couldn't completely seal it up if you want to .. I am leaving mine the way it came from the factory . I always take the bottom plug out when not in use . It has a vent tube at the bow and that gives it some ventilation to dry out any condensation that may happen . If full of foam there would be no need for venting. Just my .02 worth ..

 

[glenn property of pam]

Re: Back on the boat!

if the boat gets swamped the water stays on the deck and that's heavier than the bottom so it could make the boat roll over. A deck drain seems a good idea to stop the top turning into a swimming pool but that's just my thoughts on the subject

 

[Fcdave]

Re: Back on the boat!

I just went thru this same decision with my current rebuild...the orig under deck drain didn't have a plug and probably contributed to the rotting of the stringers since it let water in. I have decided to still provide the lower drain just in case water or moisture ever got in and it needs to dry out....but it will have a plug! I think the vent at bow area is good....especially for boats in the northern climates....you can get a lot of condensation down there and a drain hole & vent would let it dry......I'd put a plug on the vent also to keep area sealed when at sea!

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Back on the boat!

Great to see you back Kev!!!!
Have you given any thought to reviving your old thread??

I'd leave the deck drain too! If she's ever in a rainy downpour or your cover springs a leak, getting the water out would be a PITA!!! Those Plugs are NOT a problem.

 

[guitarkev77]

Re: Back on the boat!

Right on! Thanks for the replies, guys. Sorry It has taken me a while to respond, but salmon are thick in the rivers right now, and it's pretty hard to stay away.

I guess I will just put it back the way it was. I never really gave a thought to condensation, but it makes sense that this could be problematic.

Wood, thanks, it's great to be back! I would like to revive my old thread, and will be doing so once I have more pics to post.

Thanks again,

-Kevin