Partial Floor repair

[RWilson2526]

I have a new to me '87 Wellcraft 18' bowrider. The floor has two soft spots under each of the rear seats on either side of the engine cover. I would imagine that water liked to sit back there with little ventilation and probably previous owner had junk stuffed under there that held moisture and prevented drying. The rest of the floor is solid.

I would like to patch these spots to make them solid but I do not plan on keeping the boat for more than a season or 2 so I dont really want to do a whole floor replacement. Not sure its needed anyway.

The construction is a wood floor with the sides of the hull fiberglassed into the floor about 12" from the hull.

My idea to repair would be cut out square area and install aluminum or ss angle (I'm in the metal working business) around perimeter below existing floor and secure with flatheads making a lip all the way around and then place new floor material in opening. Should I fiberglass over seams? maybe only screw down for access for future inspection? Any thoughts would be appreciated.

 

[Windykid]

Re: Partial Floor repair

I think the first thing is to open the floor area and see if you have any rotten stringers and soaked foam. Sea how much damage is there first then make a plan.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Partial Floor repair

Be sure you check the transom also.

 

[RWilson2526]

Re: Partial Floor repair

I knew you guys were going to say that. Was kind of afraid to take a deep look in there (although from the outside it all sounds very solid in the back end). I was looking to sell it in a season or two so I didnt with good conscience want to sell a boat that I new had rot in the stringers (if it does exist) and at the same time dont really want to spend the time to repair if it does. BUT..... you guys bring out the better in me so I'll jump in there at the end of the season and tackle what comes along. I'll be back