Modification and Hull Integrity Question

[Backslider]

I have a 1980s Alumacraft Backtroller 17 that has a few dings. I've pulled everything out of it (storage boxes, live well, decking, transom, etc.) and I'm rebuilding it. I found four cracks in three ribs (they'll get braced and welded today). I found the cracks in the hull yesterday during the leak test (but only 4 leaking rivets!).

I'm thinking about modifying it by leaving out the boxes and live well so that I'll have more deck space. But after finding these cracks, I'm worried that without the boxes tying the boat together along the hull, and across the boat through the decking, the hull may flex more, and I'll fatigue the metal and get even more cracks. What do you guys think?

Thanks again for the help.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: Modification and Hull Integrity Question

would need pics. you will need to put the decking and transom back in. not sure on the rest. hence the need for pics to determine if the boxes were structural or not.

 

[Backslider]

Re: Modification and Hull Integrity Question

Hello Scott,
Here are some photos.

Thanks!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Modification and Hull Integrity Question

I'm worried that without the boxes tying the boat together along the hull, and across the boat through the decking, the hull may flex more, and I'll fatigue the metal and get even more cracks. What do you guys think?

Ayuh,... I think you have Reason to worry...

Ya either need the boxes, or more structure/ bracin'...

 

[Teamster]

Re: Modification and Hull Integrity Question

I know the boxes and live well are part of the structural integrity of my 16 foot Alumacraft,.....

It looks about the same as your 17 footer,.....

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: Modification and Hull Integrity Question

you will need the boxes..... or additional structure as Bond-O posted