Can I tow with deck removed?

[bowman1028]

Hi All,
First off, I am new to this community and also new to boat restoration. The content in this forum is outstanding and has been helping me along. Thanks to all for all the information you have shared. I'd be lost without it!!

My boat is a 1985 Thompson 18.5 cutlass open bow with a Mercuiser 170 I/O. I grew up on this boat, it was my dads so there is sentimental value. He moved away from the lake and out to the country 5 years ago and the boat has sat since. Engine was winterized properly prior to going away and I've spun the engine using a wrench to make sure not seized.

The floor however had some soft spots. Using the info on this site I've pulled the interior and carpet. I then cut the deck out. Not all the way though, just from the stern to right before the counsels. I have an appointment at a local marina to have them check out the stringers and transom. Can I tow the boat with the deck removed? Do I run any risk of structural damage to the hull? I've got about a 20 minute drive to the marina.

Also while having the techs check it out, any particular questions I should be sure to ask?

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Can I tow with deck removed?

Welcome to iBoats!

I'd run a couple of nylon straps around the hull before towing it. The techs should take physical core samples of the stringers, motor mounts and transom to determine if the wood is wet and or rotting.

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Can I tow with deck removed?

Hi All,
First off, I am new to this community and also new to boat restoration. The content in this forum is outstanding and has been helping me along. Thanks to all for all the information you have shared. I'd be lost without it!!

My boat is a 1985 Thompson 18.5 cutlass open bow with a Mercuiser 170 I/O. I grew up on this boat, it was my dads so there is sentimental value. He moved away from the lake and out to the country 5 years ago and the boat has sat since. Engine was winterized properly prior to going away and I've spun the engine using a wrench to make sure not seized.

The floor however had some soft spots. Using the info on this site I've pulled the interior and carpet. I then cut the deck out. Not all the way though, just from the stern to right before the counsels. I have an appointment at a local marina to have them check out the stringers and transom. Can I tow the boat with the deck removed? Do I run any risk of structural damage to the hull? I've got about a 20 minute drive to the marina.

Also while having the techs check it out, any particular questions I should be sure to ask?

You can move the boat without any problems.

Hull only .. you can still move the boat without any problems.

YD.