stringer question

[rbl90]

I have acquired a 1978 V20 cuddy. Transom is out and floor is out, fuel tank is on its way out. The question I have is in regards to the stringers. I know the stringers are wood overlapped by thick fiberglass. The wood is in bad shape mainly around joints. Could these stringers be considered active or is the fiberglass thick enough to be considered inactive.

[dboyd351]

Are you trying to find out whether to replace the stringers?

I'd hazard a guess that the wooden portion of the stringers is considered structural, just like the wood in the transom and floor. Back when these boats were built many, many boats of that era were constructed with wood as an integral part of the boat's layup, tied together and encapsulated by fiberglass.

My opinion is that it would be foolhardy NOT to replace the stringers if there is any doubt. You are probably only going to tear the deck up once, might as well fix it right while it is apart. Pennywise and pound foolish to save a few bucks on the stringers at that point, IMHO.

I would also replace the fuel lines, wiring runs under the deck (like to the sender), etc. While you have it apart. It is MUCH easier to do these things now than once the deck is put back on, plus they are in places you can't easily inspect for the condition of the hoses, wire, etc.

Been there, done that. Just my .02

[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by dboyd351

Are you trying to find out whether to replace the stringers?

I'd hazard a guess that the wooden portion of the stringers is considered structural, just like the wood in the transom and floor. Back when these boats were built many, many boats of that era were constructed with wood as an integral part of the boat's layup, tied together and encapsulated by fiberglass.

My opinion is that it would be foolhardy NOT to replace the stringers if there is any doubt. You are probably only going to tear the deck up once, might as well fix it right while it is apart. Pennywise and pound foolish to save a few bucks on the stringers at that point, IMHO.

I would also replace the fuel lines, wiring runs under the deck (like to the sender), etc. While you have it apart. It is MUCH easier to do these things now than once the deck is put back on, plus they are in places you can't easily inspect for the condition of the hoses, wire, etc.

Been there, done that. Just my .02

RBL.... that's good, logical advice. Listen to it. Red skys at night.

[macojoe]

I also agree with what has been said!! I had my floor open and did a;; before closing up, alot easier that way!!

Good Luck