Ribs?

[Ateup]

New here, and new to boat repair. Well it's my first boat. A 10' aluminum jon boat I got for free. This boat does need some repairs, what boat wouldn't for free right? The previous owner said it had one or two small leaks by the transom. I still have to confirm this. But my biggest problem right now is the fact that there is no structural support on this boat. The shell looks good and straight but when I go to move it, it twists. I am wanting to put some ribs in on the bottom and some seats/benches to help it out. Where or what can I use to fix this? There are a few holes in it, from where there used to be two benches and a motor. My plans for this boat is just something to paddle around in and fish out of in a small lake and coastal flats. I'll try an post up some pics a little later to better explain.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Ribs?

welcome to iboats. pics: http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=286514

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Ribs?

Much of the "support" in a small aluminum boat comes from the seats. The smaller and older aluminum boats were basically "stamped" and only had a minumum weld seam at the transom.

Installation of seats would help. Adding ribs may not be necessary...... some of the older thinner john boats were very flexible while floating and the deck would give with the water.

Replace those bench seats. Since you plan on using a paddle...... Jon boats handle great with rowing and oars. Seat position in important for either and making sure the rail is strong if you use oars. Patch the holes and depending on the leaks there are a few solutions.

Does the boat have rivets or is it completely welded?

Welcome to iboats!

 

[Ateup]

Re: Ribs?

Thanks for the replies. I just got done taking a real good look at it during the day time. I was going put the boat in the water to test for leaks and I found my leaks before I ever put the boat in the water. Somebody decided to drill threw the floor for a bench that was previously installed. What is the best way to go about repairing them? I would like to do something a little bit better than whoever own it prior to me, just putting down silicone.

Right now i'm in the process of stripping all of the glue and what's left of the outdoor carpet. This is going to take a while but it seemed to chip off pretty well with a flat head screw driver and some taps with my hand. I'm going to attack it again with a scraper and a rubber mallet to finish it off.

The rails look good and sound even around the pin holes for some oars. I know i'm probably getting a little ahead of myself, but where is a good place pick up an oaring system that will allow me to row facing the bow and going that direction. I would like to see where i'm going with out looking over my shoulder .

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Ribs?

NEVER use silicone to repair a leak (unless it's your home fishtank).

You can fill the holes and patch them with any Marine tex product. The seams and rivets are best sealed with gluvit (made by marine tex)...... welding is also an option.

If you try to repair holes with the low cost durafix type products be warned you can destroy the aluminum if you are not experienced.... not advised.