Re-decking question

[jeffrey.bean]

I have an 1990 Chawk 18, I plan on replacing the fuel tank in the next few months.
My questions is, after I cut out the old deck and install the fuel tank, how do I install (support) the new plywood?
Do I screw cleats under the old deck, which will allow the new plywood to rest on and provide support?

 

[Chris51280]

cleats are screwed on the top of the stringers. The deck then gets screwed to the cleats. I used 2x2 along the stringers. Once the deck is off, it will be good to inspect the stringers of rot. If the deck is bad, so are the stringers. Moisture goes from bottom up

 

[JASinIL2006]

If the seams between pieces of decking are not over a stringer (i.e., if the seams are 'hanging'), you can use cleats to support the seam. Just be sure to have at least 2-3" overlapping each side of the seam, so you have plenty of support for the seam and to make sure you have enough space for screws.

Do you plan on covering the new deck section (and adjacent existing deck) with fiberglass to protect against water intrusion?

I'm not familiar with that boat and its construction, but if it it's a standard wood-and-fiberglass structure, definitely check the stringers for moisture/rot while you have the deck removed.

 

[jeffrey.bean]

The deck is solid, and the stringers I have access to seem sound.
I was just planning on cutting out just enough to remove the tank. Of course if I do find rot, the job will get bigger.

 

[Baylinerchuck]

Unless the boat is in exceptional condition and in dry storage most of its life, a 1990 boat will have some rot. Especially in the fuel cell area where there was plenty of condensation, and little or no drainage. This is where it all started on my 1990 Chaparral…..ahhhh the memories.