Floor in Aluminum Boat

[jd438]

I am currently working on a 16 ft Alumacraft boat that doestn't have a floor in it. I am not sure of the year, but it is older. I took out the two middle benches and there is support under that that I will leave in. How can I install the floor and keep the floor in place. Should I attach framing to the hull to support the hull? Should I put foam back in for floatation? Anything I should be aware of before I tear into it?

 

[Fishin' Jeff]

Re: Floor in Aluminum Boat

I'd be careful adding the floor, jd. I installed a deck and pedestal seat on the front of my 14' and had to remove the pedestal because the center of gravity was WAY to high. I had pondered installing a false floor, but now have nixed that idea. Walking around on the original floor is "tippy" enough for me. Adding a higher floor would make it more unstable. Sorry I can't offer any encouragement.

 

[DJ]

Re: Floor in Aluminum Boat

You can install a floor. However following these tips.<br /><br />1. Install a perimeter, as you thought, frame attached to the hull ribs only.<br /><br />2. Do not allow the framing or the floor to touch the hull directly.<br /><br />3. Yes, put "closed cell" foam under the floor. You can pour, spray or lay blocks of foam down.<br /><br />As mentioned, be aware of your center of gravity. A few inches may make the boat "tippy".<br /><br />I suggest laying down a few loose sheets of plywood, temporarily, to see how the boat behaves with a raised center of gravity.