Checking for water in the foam.

[Salt Life]

To all who read:
I'm fairly new to the boating world, and I've heard horror stories of waterlogged foam and stringer and transom rot. I recently bought a 1983 245 Sea Ray cabin cruiser and I've finally got this thing running perfect. After switching a few props on this thing, the best choice is a 15 by 15 that only gives me a top speed of 22 knots. The 17 pitch I could get up to 28 at WOT. Anyways, I have a feeling that the boat is heavier that it should be and would like to check it for "waterlogged" foam. Anybody know the best way and spots to check? Drill holes in the bottom? And how big of holes are we talking? I'm looking at finishing out the rest of the summer/fall the way it is. Basically I take it to the sandbar on the weekends and head out in the ocean to fish. I'm looking at giving this boat a makeover this winter, give it a newer look and update the woodwork. The wife doesn't like the "cream" colored gel coat Any direction is greatly appriciated. Thanks

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Checking for water in the foam.

do a search on here for "core sample". The gist is basically drill a couple holes in the deck and push down a sharpened piece of PVC pipe.

 

[notsunkyet]

Re: Checking for water in the foam.

hey there ane welcome to IBOATS! ok the foam is bad lol one way to test is grab the trust cordles drill make a 3/8 hole where the foam is and use a piece of 3/8 dowl rod to get through it to the bottom...let it sit for about 10 minutes if ya yank it out and its wet... you got issues

 

[Lion hunter]

Re: Checking for water in the foam.

To get an idea of the extent and how it's effecting your performance you need to find out what the original weight of the boat was. Then compare to weight now.

You can also tip the tongue up high and watch the black, stinking stuff drain out the back for what seems like hours. Then it's rebuild time.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Checking for water in the foam.

hey there ane welcome to IBOATS! ok the foam is bad lol one way to test is grab the trust cordles drill make a 3/8 hole where the foam is and use a piece of 3/8 dowl rod to get through it to the bottom...let it sit for about 10 minutes if ya yank it out and its wet... you got issues

This is a good method.

You DONT want to drill from the outside of the hull. Always through the deck (floor).