MFG stringer question

[Bass-A-Holic]

I could pick up what appears to be a MFG challenger for pretty close to free. I was just wondering if these boats even have stringers (im assuming they do)? The boat would need stringers replaced if i got it, but my other question is, that if i used the boat as a little duck boat with just a trolling motor for power, on a little 5 acre lake, would it be nessasary to replace the rotted stringers?

Here is a link to the boat model-
http://www.fiberglassics.com/mfg/mfgb69014.jpg
Thanks

 

[iwombat]

Re: MFG stringer question

Doesn't look like it has wood stringers to me. Probably just molded fiberglass.

 

[Mark42]

Re: MFG stringer question

Great little find. There are no stringers in that boat. It is one of the few MFG pressure moded hull designs. Fiberglass and resin are sprayed on a steel mold using a "chopper gun" and then the matching side is pressed on under great pressure and heat. The result is a hull that will last nearly forever. Do not confuse this process with regular "chopper gun" fiberglass layup (that has a bad reputation).

My 1965 Niagara was made using this process. It is still solid and will probably out live me. After the mid 70's or so MFG stopped the match mold system (probably due to the expense involved with making these huge steel molds) and went to traditional manufacturing processes.

That is exactly the right boat for your use. Enjoy!

 

[Bass-A-Holic]

Re: MFG stringer question

well i guess that is a good thing that it doesnt have stringers, now i just need to get. Then repair the 2"x6" gash in the bottom of the hull. So im sure I'll have more questions.d