boat deck repair

[mercerfisherman]

This is hard to explain, but I'll try. I own a 16' 1984 Sylvan aluminum fishing boat. The back half of the deck needs replacing. It's rotted. I have researched this topic for hours to no avail. And, I'm getting mixed signals on how to remove the deck. Some posts (on other sites) say rip out the carpeting and start cutting out the deck around the perimeter. How can this be when my old deck (and carpet) extend several inches underneath and beyond my storage compartments on both sides of my boat? The deck appears to rest on an aluminum rim that runs along the farthest sides of my boat. If I were to simply cut the deck where I can, what would support my new deck when installing it? Just the stringers? This is getting very frustrating and maybe far beyond my capabilities. Any advice would help. Thanks.

 

[jspano]

Re: boat deck repair

without any pics, i'm thinking you will have to remove the storage compartments, then the decking. replace with non pressure treated ply, coated with resin. then replace the storage

 

[geedubcpa]

Re: boat deck repair

On my 1981 starcraft - I had to remove the side panels in order to remove the floor. My side panels needed rebuilt anyways so it wasn't a big deal.

Just reading between the lines, I think you have an issue with your side panels also.

They are probably rivited in, and the only way to remove rivits is with grinder or drill bit.