Re: Transom problems with Larson 186 SEI I/O Bowrider
Hi Tom, I'd agree that you'll get better assistance if you start your own thread, and as soon as I see it, I'll subscribe to it.
In the meantime, I'll try to address your questions. If the decking beneath the molded fiberglass bow section is rotten, I would think you might have to remove the entire cap from the boat... In my boat, the decking runs just up to the center compartment on the bow. I don't know how you'd replace the decking under the bow section if you didn't have access to to it. Have you removed any lining from two side compartments in the bow? That might let you see how much tabbing, etc., is holding the decking to that section of the hull.
I'm not sure it would be absolutely necessary to remove that section of deck if you can't get at. On my boat, that wood only really serves as the floor for the compartments. If I can get out to my boat in the next few days, I'll see if I can get my camera up in front of the ski locker to see how all that is attached in my boat. (I didn't replace any decking forward of the front of my ski locker. My deck was in pretty good shape in the front of the boat.) One reason you might start your own thread is to get some help on this part of your project.
h
Re: the engineered stringers, I'm not an expert, but I'd really be hesitant to cut the stringers/bulkheads without getting a lot more input from more experienced builders. My understanding is that the foam on the structural members provides little or no strength; the strength is all from the fiberglass that wraps the foam. Have you core-sampled the foam inside the stringers? I'd be tempted to leave them alone unless the foam was really saturated. If the foam is really wet, that might be another matter, but I'd want to know before doing too much. Are the pinholes in the stringers from the staples that held the decking down? (My deck originally was attached with thickened resin and staples.)
Given what you seem to be facing, even if you don't have to do anything with the stringers and the hidden part of the deck, you still have a pretty substantial time investment facing you... A new thread with lots more pictures would help you get feedback that will allow you to decide what you're facing.
I'll look for your thread and check in there.
Jim
