No Foam???

[imported_peter p]

Hi,
I'm new here and to boating.
I'm looking to buy a used Springbok probably from the 80's. It's all aluminum and about 15 - 16 feet long with a steering wheel that works with cables (not hydraulic). It looks to be in good shape.
It has no floor and no seats.
My question is, shouldn't there be some foam in this boat to keep it afloat if it sinks?

Thanks

 

[jtexas]

Re: No Foam???

"keep it afloat if it sinks" - it'll be too late!

kidding.

USCG regs require boatbuilders to add floatation to keep a boat afloat and level if filled with water but don't apply to DIY mods.

If you floor it you can pour foam underneath...or not...lots of advice over on the Boat Building and Restoring Forum.

And welcome to iboats!

 

[Chris1956]

Re: No Foam???

Peter, It likely had foam at one time, and someone removed it. My 1968 12' aluminum Jon boat had foam under the three seats. It was easily enough to keep it afloat, when I swamped it.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: No Foam???

Peter, Put a chunk of styrafoam under the deck, and one under the motor well and you should be good. Use some straps with pop rivits to hold it in. I would wildly guess that you would neet enough foam to float 300 - 500 pounds.