1990 24' Answer Project

[jeffmcelhany]

Hello guys, im new to this site and really havent had that much experience in rebuilding a boat. I wanted a big center console but really didnt want to break out 20k so i decided to build one. I found a good deal on a 1990 24' Answer that appears like it doesnt need much work. The hull is solid and everywhere i can see underneath the deck appears to be in very good condition. I believe they added extra protection to the stringers and transon because it has an in deck ice box that drains into the bottom hole so there will always be water around the stringers. I had to build a fuel tank (95 gallon aluminum) for it and am going to install it this week. The motor is a 1995 Merc 225 EFI offshore. The foot is locked up and i am investigating it. The only worries i have with the project are that there are a few soft places in the floor that need to be replaced and i havent had any experience with fiberglass before. Anyone have any suggestions. I am debating on whether to replace the entire floor or just try to replace the soft spots.

 

[jeffmcelhany]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

^^^

 

[jeffmcelhany]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

I am also having trouble finding information on this boat. The coast Guard sticker is still in place and i can see the max hp and max weight but i didnt see a max persons. Is the number of ppl open on a boat this size as long as you stay within the weight limit? I have also tried to attach a few pictures. We will see if they upload.

 

[captain_ron]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

Looks like you got a nice project on your hands . I would think as long as you have enough life jackets just stay with in the weight limit with in reason. Don't load up 21 120 pound girls ...second thought do that and ill help lol

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

Boat weight limits include everything AND people: gear, motor, gas...everything. The # of people limit is based on the boat's weight limit, and calculated using 'people' at @150lb person.

W/out pix, hard to say, but yep, if there are soft spots, you probably need to replace the whole deck.

Where you can access the stringers may seem sound, but once you get the deck off, you may find evidence of water intrusion. Look carefully. Same for the transom.

Core sampling the wood below deck's can give you a really good idea about the under deck structure's condition.

 

[jeffmcelhany]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

I have read about people core sampling their stringers and transom. What would be the best way to seal it back up? I know the stringers are subject to a lot of force and movement especially on a gulf boat that is gonna be running in 4-6 foot seas most of the time

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

A few 1/4"-3/8" holes across the stringer or transom shouldn't compromise an otherwise sound structure.

3M 4200-5200 could be used to fill the holes.

DO NOT THRU DRILL the transom :watermelon:

Make a depth gauge w/ tape on the drill bit:

 

[garrett113]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

^^^ just what I was going to recommend. Good luck! I wasn't so lucky.

 

[jeffmcelhany]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

I was thinking 5200 also but just wanted to get a veteran opinion. I have used 5200 on many projects but nothing that will be hidden like that, would you recommend maybe running a screw in the hole after filling with 5200? I have seen it crack and fall out before but it has always been in sight so that it can be noticed and fixed asap

 

[jeffmcelhany]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

Thanks for the help, I surely wouldn't need to go more that half way correct?

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

Thanks for the help, I surely wouldn't need to go more that half way correct?

1.25" into the transom will be just over 2/3rds +/- thru the transom.

3/16"+/- fiberglass skin each side + 1.5" thick transom plywood = 1 7/8" ~ 2" thick total thickness

I was thinking 5200 also but just wanted to get a veteran opinion. I have used 5200 on many projects but nothing that will be hidden like that, would you recommend maybe running a screw in the hole after filling with 5200? I have seen it crack and fall out before but it has always been in sight so that it can be noticed and fixed asap

3M 5200 (a permanent adhesive caulk) is dang near impossible to remove when you WANT to remove it, fell out? Never heard of that happening.

 

[jeffmcelhany]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

Got my tank finished and ready to install. Planning on doing it this weekend if the weather permits. I took a few core samples yesterday and there was nothing that gave me any concern.

 

[jeffmcelhany]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

Well i havent had the chance to install the tank due to the weather conditions. I did however learn an interesting fact about a 1995 Merc 225 fuel pump. It was locked up and i tried for days to get it to unlock. I read where some guys had said to get a switch and toggle between the two poles to get it unlocked but that didnt work. Just when i was about to give up and spend the $725 Mercury wants for a new one i tapped it (quite vigorously) and i rapidly arched the positive pole causing it to surge and spark. Idk if the surge gave it more power to break the debris free or what but it is running like a brand new one now.:laugh::laugh:

 

[carribbean soul]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

you want to put a coat of coal tar epoxy on that tank before the install so it doesn't corrode .

 

[jeffmcelhany]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

Thanks, I was planning on putting something on it i just havent decided what yet. I know most paints have a hard time sticking to aluminmum so i was going to find some primer to go on it. Would i need to use a primer with coal tar epoxy?

 

[jeffmcelhany]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

Anyone want to buy this boat? I just got the news that I have a baby on the way and have to get rid of the toys and buy a house. Contact 251-214-4609 if interested. I was asking $4500. It has loadmaster aluminum trailer also

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: 1990 24' Answer Project

Probably shouldn't post your phone # in an open public forum.... Besides, selling isn't allowed in the forum


Congrats on the 'news' & a pending move.