Stabilizing a closed bow

[upsidedown83]

Hi Everyone,
I just purchased (more like stole) a 79 gulfstream for $400, the boat is in excellent shape and the 115 horse Johnson runs like a champ. The closed bow already has mounts for a pedastool seat and foot operated trolling motor, however I notice a little bit of give from even my 140 lbs when standing on the bow. Does anyone have any tips on making this bow a little more rigid? Thanks.

 

[arks]

Re: Stabilizing a closed bow

Welcome to iboats!
Assuming you have access below the bow deck, add a few wooden or aluminium "props" from under the deck to the hull. They'll be transferring weight and need to be fairly stout- at least 2x4, with a solid foot.

 

[oops!]

Re: Stabilizing a closed bow

huh......uh exactally what are we talking about.....?????
are we talking obout a closed bow boat....and you are standing on the top of the cap?....just in front of the windsheild? or are we takling about a soft floor?....it sounds like it......

propping it up from the bottom of the hull can sause issues with the gellcoat...so dont let the prop rod touch the bare hull....

if it is the floor ........you need to find out why it has give.....search core sample.......

welcome to i boats.......this place is boat university......you can learn to do anything to your boat here.
we can and will walk you thru anything here.

 

[salty87]

Re: Stabilizing a closed bow

unless it's a bigger boat, i've never been on the bow of a closed-bow that felt particularly sturdy. scurry up there to get the rope or whatever you need, and get to the back as quick as possible.

 

[oops!]

Re: Stabilizing a closed bow

if we are talking about the top bow area of a closed bow boat.......


it can be made stronger.........from underneath ......using thin strips of wood in a cross grid situation.......(strips on edge)....fiberglass then into place.

then ........make a beam out of a 2x4 tha runs under your glass work.......and support the beam with a post that runs to the floor.......not the inner hull but the floor of the boat.