newbie and casting decks

[manveru]

i have a 1960 alpine 16' closed bow boat that i want to put casting decks on. It seems like the easiest way would be to just remove the cap instead of cutting up the closed bow. Which would be structually stronger? Does anyone have any other ideas? or is this a bad idea all together. Heres some pics with the old floor removed. thanks

 

[CATransplant]

Re: newbie and casting decks

The cap is an important part of the structure of that boat. Remove it, and you'll have a nice floppy hull. It's possible to brace everything, but the boat was designed for the cap to tie everything together.

 

[Mark42]

Re: newbie and casting decks

Besides what CA wrote, a casting deck that high up will be very tippy on the bow of the boat. Consider building a platform in the back, maybe 18" up or even flush with the gunnels. That will be more stable, and you can store lots of gear underneath. Maybe even a folding post seat or two. Put a step or two in the center to get up to the platform, and you got a fishing machine.

But leave the bow alone.

 

[bowman316]

Re: newbie and casting decks

what is a casting deck?

Is it just a pre formed deck you pop into place?

 

[manveru]

Re: newbie and casting decks

so you don't think that the decks fiberglassed to the hull will give it enough support?

 

[SuzukiChopper]

Re: newbie and casting decks

Check out my current project:

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=283138

Page 2 is where it starts getting good.