Soft Spots

[littleG]

I was possibly looking to purchase a 1983 Grady White hull. When we first inspected the boat we noticed soft spots on both the port/starboard sides approx 6-8" in from the fuel tank hatches. The cause seems to be from deck hardware that the orinal owner installed. Would anyone have any clue as to how much it would run to have a deck worked on and possibly replaced (worst case)? The rest of the boat looks to be in good condition including the transome (closed w/bracket).

 

[JB]

Re: Soft Spots

Soft spots are almost always rot, Lg.<br /><br />There is almost always 10 times as much rot as you can see/feel.<br /><br />Forget that boat and look for one that is solid. . . everywhere.

 

[phatmanmike]

Re: Soft Spots

or get it and rebuild it and make it stronger than new. and you can customize it to any way you like. i cant believe JB told you to scrap the idea. <br /><br />jb, your a main employee of the website that is made specificaly to help people fix and repair their boats

 

[JB]

Re: Soft Spots

I am not an employee here, PMM. I am a volunteer.<br /><br />When a member asks what it would cost to "have" something done I don't see a DIY boat rebuilder, I see a potential victim.<br /><br />My advice stands.

 

[jsfinn]

Re: Soft Spots

I agree. If you don't want to do the work yourself, pass on the boat. It's going to cost more than it's worth to have someone do the work for you.<br /><br />Grady Whites are good boats but if the floor is soft, more than likely, it'll be more than just the floor that needs to be replaced.<br /><br />By the way, I'd be willing to bet that JB would have provided other advice if the boat was a Whaler.

 

[JB]

Re: Soft Spots

If it was a Whaler there wouldn't be soft spots, JSF.

 

[lark2004]

Re: Soft Spots

Yep, Unless the boat is an absolute bargain, spend your money elsewhere. The cost of the boat + the repair, could easily be spent on a much better boat, even another boat around the same price, but in better condition, then you save the money you would've spent on repairs. I only justify my rebuild due to the boat costing $80.00 with trailer and the boats hull being sound, I only need to replace the floor and transom. The stringers are fully fiberglass, with no timber used in their construction. If the boat was going to cost $1500 (thats the avg price here for 15ft with trailer, no engine) then I would not be doing it.