Inspection hatches
 

This could also go into repairs just as easily.
Finally came up with a plan of attack to mount the seats and I’m reusing the pedestal type that was in the boat.
I was convinced the wood in the floor was rotten and would need replacing.
Come to find out the screw holes to the pedestals was the only major rot problem.
The easiest solution I could come up with was to install inspection hatches between the seats, only once I cut the holes for them could I determine the condition of the floor.
http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w...Picture215.jpg
Now all I had to do was add plywood support beneath the seat locations and screw or bolt the seats back in location.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: This model not only didn’t have flotation but the hull and deck is glued together which will prohibit separation, say for stringer replacement!

http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w...Picture214.jpg

Re: Inspection hatches
 

all of them have the floors glued to the stringers but i bet yours is like everyones the floor is loose there now. the glue dries up and then breaks loose so much for that glue. but if you remove use liquid nails adhesive, it will out last the boat.

Re: Inspection hatches
 

So far the floor appears stuck tightly to the stringers.
Maybe I can change that when I get the boat useable ;D which should be about the time the northeasters start to blow around here.
Thanks Skools

Re: Inspection hatches
 

Oh, here's the plywood being used.
http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w...Picture226.jpg
It's form board and very resistant to being in the weather as is. First ran across it about 25 years ago.
After being discarded on a jobsite, I brought it home and put it on the walkway to the dock. I believe it lasted another 15 years till we redid the walkway.
And the tell-tale signs of being formboard is the orange paint on the outer edges.
http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w...Picture227.jpg

Re: Inspection hatches
 

So, did you cut the circle first and then the cut out for the hatch lid?

Looks good. Now you have good access to the guts of that rig!

Keep us posted on your progress.

Re: Inspection hatches
 

Yes on the circle cutting. The hatch rough opening is exactly the same distance between the stringers, so I actually had to do more prospect cutting to square between the stringers.

Re: Inspection hatches
 

CC guard made a law in 77 for flotation, thats why the newer boats then ares have a higher deck then ares for the tank and flotation.

Re: Inspection hatches
 

if you're thinking of adding floatation, I've been toying with the idea of using foam noodles, they're closed cell foam, and as soon as Labor Day passes, they will be on sale for cheap. just cram'em anywhere you want floatation.

Re: Inspection hatches
 

Thats a good Idea! They are $1 each right now

Re: Inspection hatches
 

I haven't been able to find the big ones, next time I work near Myrtle beach, I'll have to stop in at "Wings"