1984 sylvan carpeting/deck problem

[mercerfisherman]

I have a 1984 Sylvan 16' aluminum fishing boat. The deck is rotting. I'm trying to replace the deck but I can't for the life of me figure out how to remove the carpeting so I can get at the deck. If I sent a photo or two of the boat's interior where I'm having problems, could somebody possibly tell me how to get the carpeting out? Any place I can go to to get an opinion on how to remove the carpeting so I can get a look at the deck? I'm afraid a dealer wouldn't give me the time of day. Any advice would help. Thanks.

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1984 sylvan carpeting/deck problem

Ayuh,... My guess is the carpet is Glued to the plywood...
Ya gotta just start Rippin' it Out...

 

[mercerfisherman]

Re: 1984 sylvan carpeting/deck problem

I probably did a lousy job of explaining this... even if I rip the carpet out I still can't get at my deck because because it's being held down by two side storage panels on the boat, except the panels are riveted to the boat frame. I think I would have to submit some photos to better explain it.

 

[Shife]

Re: 1984 sylvan carpeting/deck problem

Get used to drilling rivet heads off. There will be a ton of them.

 

[DianneB]

Re: 1984 sylvan carpeting/deck problem

Agreed - drill out the rivets.

I had to do that to remove the side panels in my '87 Sylvan to replace the rear 8 feet of the sole. At least on the '87 they used screws along the top and bottom and only used rivets around the side storage compartments. Where I drilled out rivets I was able to use SS screws, nuts, and flat washers to put it back together.

 

[Friscoboater]

Re: 1984 sylvan carpeting/deck problem

Pictures would help too.

 

[mercerfisherman]

Re: 1984 sylvan carpeting/deck problem

Thank you all very much... I appreciate your help and advice...