What to use to repair stringers

[Mr. H]

I am rebuilding a 1988 four winns 180 horizon to a modern boat. What materials should i use to repair the stringers that are bad around the gas tank?

 

[chevymaher]

Scott be along with the reading list here shortly. I got a 87 170. It gonna need a full gut and rebuild.

 

[jbcurt00]

Likely to need to replace more then just the stringers at the gas tank..

 

[Chris1956]

I like to use dry pressure treated dimensional (solid) lumber, for replacing stringers and frames. it must be dry for the resin to stick to it.

 

[JASinIL2006]

I'm not a big fan of using pressure treated wood... I've read too many accounts of people having problems with the fiberglass not adhering. I also would be concerned about the PT chemicals interacting with whatever metal is used for fasteners (e.g., to bolt the engine mounts down). PT would not be my choice.

 

[Chris1956]

I have used dry PT plywood and solid lumber w/o issue. I use only Stainless Steel fasteners, which stand up to PT lumber.

Steel and regular Galv steel can be affected by PT lumber. Current galvanized nails and screws for PT decking use are double galvanized for corrosion resistance.

 

[samntrllr]

I rebuilt a 1981 Glasply. That company had discontinued wood stringers and went to solid fiberglass stringers. There is a life span for wood stringers. They will fail in time.

 

[GSPLures]

Welcome,
Most people use exterior ply, has been used since fiberglass boats have been around. If done properly and then taken care of no reason that they will not last 20 or more years. I used 3/4 bcx ply and laminated multiple pieces together for areas that were thicker than 3/4 (transom).

Check along the bottom of the entire length of the stringers and also the transom by drilling core samples. Most people use a 1/4in bit and do not go all the way through to check the condition of the wood shavings. Dry and looks like wood your good to go, just patch the holes. If it is dark saturated then a full gut should be done.

 

[Mr. H]

The full gut has begun. Thanks for all your help! I will let you know how it comes out.

 

[chevymaher]

Lots of pictures please.

 

[Reserector_]

"HI, Mr. H!! Welcome to the group. Tell us how you felt when you first realized that your stringers were the consistency of porridge. Remember...you're not alone. We're all at different stages of this."

 

[Mr. H]

Updated Pics of the rebuild

 

[Baylinerchuck]

Welcome,
Most people use exterior ply, has been used since fiberglass boats have been around. If done properly and then taken care of no reason that they will not last 20 or more years. I used 3/4 bcx ply and laminated multiple pieces together for areas that were thicker than 3/4 (transom).

There been lots of discussion over the years about dimensional lumber vs exterior grade plywood. Plywood always comes out on top for numerous reasons. I’ve not bought a piece of PT wood that’s been completely dry. Maybe it’s just my locality.

 

[kcassells]

There been lots of discussion over the years about dimensional lumber vs exterior grade plywood. Plywood always comes out on top for numerous reasons. I’ve not bought a piece of PT wood that’s been completely dry. Maybe it’s just my locality.

100% Agree