Does there need to be adhesive between flooring and metal cross arms on frame?

[Playbouy 83]

We removed the rotting plywood on our pontoon and there was a sticky tape on the metal cross arms similar to the tape used on pickups between the beds and caps. It peeled off easily. It wasn't installed on the entire cross arm only on each side and in the center. Is this necessary or can plywood go directly on metal arms and be screwed down with SS screws?

 

[Noggin]

Re: Does there need to be adhesive between flooring and metal cross arms on frame?

I know my toon has adhesive (looks like a caulk type) between the deck and cross members. I'd have to assume that it would indeed help with torquing and rattling, so if you're in the process of putting new deck on, I'd take the extra time and adhesive that stuff down. Just my opinion though.

 

[Playbouy 83]

Re: Does there need to be adhesive between flooring and metal cross arms on frame?

I know my toon has adhesive (looks like a caulk type) between the deck and cross members. I'd have to assume that it would indeed help with torquing and rattling, so if you're in the process of putting new deck on, I'd take the extra time and adhesive that stuff down. Just my opinion though.

Thanks, thought that it might have something to do with noise control.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Does there need to be adhesive between flooring and metal cross arms on frame?

It also helps seal where the plywood sheets meet. Sometimes water can be forced between the sheets if not sealed.

 

[5150abf]

Re: Does there need to be adhesive between flooring and metal cross arms on frame?

That serves 2 purposes, as rick said it helps keep water out and it also seperates the wood from the aluminum since treated ply and aluminum don't like each other so definately get some more on and use lots of screws, the wood on the boat is a major structural part of the boat.