So when is the correct time to replace the floor?

[scipper77]

I have a 1985 Chris Craft Scorpion 168 (17' open bow). My floor isn't soft but there are to sections of floor on either side of the doghouse that have raised up 1/8'th to 1/4" higher than the center section. There is no evidence of transom damage (famous last words right!!). This past winter my tarp failed (moisture found it's way into the boat).

I guess what I want to know is if replacing the deck now will save my stringers? I'm hoping that since the deck isn't rotted the stringers have a prayer.


There is absolutely no way I am going to even consider all of the steps in a complete restore (pulling the motor, grinding the hull, invoking a divorce, forgetting what my kids look like, etc...) I think I could possibly handle just the deck and foam like an aluminum boat restore.

 

[ondarvr]

Re: So when is the correct time to replace the floor?

I can tell you now, the only thing you need to do is replace the plywood deck, nothing else will have any damage and the transom and stringers will be in perfect condition.

This will get you started and then when you've removed the deck ply you'll see the other problems and be into too far to give up. LOL


There's no way to know what you'll find, wet foam, rotten wood, cracks, or a perfect structure.

 

[scipper77]

Re: So when is the correct time to replace the floor?

Thank you ondarvr. I know you are right. someone should make the stages of restoration denial a sticky. I am in step 1) "It's only the floor.

Has anyone on this site ever had a bad floor but good stringers or foam?

I guess I need to take a core sample of the foam. I've read that a hole saw for the deck and then some PVC pipe to remove a plug of foam is a good way to take a sample of foam (looking for approval). Also I'm not sure how to best patch the hole.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: So when is the correct time to replace the floor?

Restoration Denial!
1. There's Nothing wrong, it's been like that for years!
2. It can't be that bad..
3. I can do it in one weekend
4. All boats have wet foam
5. Only part of the transom is rotten
6. I can do it by next season
7. Run out of funds!
8. Admit your in over your head
9. Log in to iboats!

lol

 

[SurfsideJim]

Plywood

Plywood

Can someone please give me the pros and cons of using pressure treated vs. non pressure treated plywood for flooring? I have a 1972 Surf Side bass boat and I am down to the hull. Need advice on which type of wood to use.
Jim