Thinking about adding foam- anyone has ?

[bgreene]

With some decent access to the hull from the gunnel rod holders and such, I'm thinking - how about pouring some foam into this V21.

Has anyone done so ? What's the issue as long as I don't create any blockages to water flow or wiring.

[spareparts]

I've shoved swimming noodles into various access areas for flotation, if you keep them out of the sun, they last a long time

[reelapeelin]

With some decent access to the hull from the gunnel rod holders and such, I'm thinking - how about pouring some foam into this V21.

Has anyone done so ? What's the issue as long as I don't create any blockages to water flow or wiring.

Is this another dream of yours or are you actually considering doing it?

[Destroyer]

I've shoved swimming noodles into various access areas for flotation, if you keep them out of the sun, they last a long time

Thought about using them and also ping pong balls. They are small, lightweight and fit just about anywhere. Problem is their cost. I'd need to talk to a manufacturer and buy in bulk. But out of the sun they should last forever. :head:

[Destroyer]

With some decent access to the hull from the gunnel rod holders and such, I'm thinking - how about pouring some foam into this V21.

Has anyone done so ? What's the issue as long as I don't create any blockages to water flow or wiring.

If you're going to use poured foam you have to be very careful... that stuff expands as it cures.. and can exert tremendous force between the hull and the deck. I've heard of cases where it's actually parted seams.:head:

[bgreene]

Is this another dream of yours or are you actually considering doing it?

It may be a dream because of the following concerns:
1. foam expansion could cut off the factory set water flow path that currently runs under the cuddy to the bilge.
2. to Destroyers point - the foam expansion could cause issues in terms of pressure on the hull, decking etc.

[Blue_Runner]

Bgreene your V21 should have foam in it already. Or are you just wanting to add to what is there?

[RidgeRunner]

Bgreene your V21 should have foam in it already. Or are you just wanting to add to what is there?

Bingo, my thought exactly. Probably can't see it without some poking around though. It should have two part foam poured in place from the stringers out as well as around the fuel tank.

[ssiredfish]

I read somewhere about the relationship of added weight vs. added displacement.......you should really look into it. My understanding was that it was not a great idea. I'll see what I can dig up......

[bgreene]

Bgreene your V21 should have foam in it already. Or are you just wanting to add to what is there?

Maybe it does have foam already. If so, no need.

[bradford]

If it were me I'd stuff the foam noodles in the gunnels before I added anything permanent. The foam around my original fuel tank was the reason for it rotting out.

[Blue_Runner]

Take out the rod boxes and stick your hand down below the floor level just under the forward rod holder. You should feel foam. Should be able to see it with a light. If your rod holders aren't plumbed to the bilge the foam is probably WET if it has sat out in the rain.