They are not as big as they look in the picture there about 2X2
See full version: Soft spot Repair or Whole floor
They are not as big as they look in the picture there about 2X2
You can use marine ply, but you won't find it at Lowe's / HD. I like it, but most people go with a good AC exterior plywood. which is what I would use unless you plan on keeping the boat forever ( I have one that falls into that category, lol). As to how much, you will have to do some measuring, but that sounds about right. On the transom, just drill through the inner skin, close to the bottom. You don't want to go all the way through, just enough to get some shavings. Most transoms are about 1-1/2" thick or close to it by the way (the wood part). If the shavings are dry and "yellow" wood color you are good. Do this in several spots, especially around the drain. more than likely you will get something that is gray / brown and wet. here
Read through as many restoration threads as you can, 'cause in each and every one you will find good information that will help guide you through the process. [links]
Now, you just need to replace it. Be sure to use high-quality wood that is going to last. It is also pertinent to seal the edges exceptionally well. If there are any leaks whatsoever, your boat is no longer going to be suitable for use. If you’re working with an aluminum boat floor, it might be best to hire a professional to deal with the issue. more
If your boat’s floor has been damaged or it has started to rot, you’re going to need to work quickly.
There is a good chance that you’re going to be carrying heavy or even sharp items through your boat. If so, you should proceed with extreme caution. Get help and make sure you do not drop the items in question. Otherwise, they may very well ruin the floor inside of the boat.
You really must be good with your hands unless you want to pay someone to do everything for you.
I'm into my 3rd boat rebuild and the comments about boat construction and cutting corners is right on the mark. I'll just about guarantee that the underside of the deck wasn't glassed, or even coated with resin. It's only a matter of time before more and more of the deck rots to the point that it feels soft. more
Long Answer: The top of the floor has access to air, so it can almost always dry out. Wood has to be damp for a long time to rot to the extent that it becomes soft. This pretty much has to occur from the bottom up, and because water flows downhill, something has to be holding it up against the deck, either foam or stringers. Chances are by the time those parts can hold water up against a deck, they are already waterlogged. [links]
Re: Does a soft spot ALWAYS mean you're totally screwed?
Depending on your area you live, I imagine the guy is wanting 5 to 6 K for that boat. Most of the late 80's early 90's boats being sold is the owner dumping his known troubles on someone else.
Based on the posts I've read, it's like the boat has been sentenced to death. Is something that small always indicative of a trashed boat? Are there any stories that aren't doomsday where it turned out that the stringers and transom were fine? [links]
if you do it yourself and it is only the floor. you might get by with $300 bucks and 50 hours. that sounds like a lot. but its not. 25 days @ 2 hours each. no big deal. and its fun
however. if you have even minimal experiance with tools and wood. go for it.
you are hauling in that big fish when you step thru the floor, break your leg and (worse) loose the fish more