My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

[Rainbow hunter]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

The reason I may not get a floor in this before the summer is over is because I also have that SS 18 project going ad I'm hoping to find an engine/out drive that will enable me to get back on that project. I am going to build a rack on the existing trailer so I can turn the Falcon upside down and leave it that way for the winter, but I don't want to take any chances with the bottom once that POR 15 has applied. It's EXPENSIVE, so I am going to paint it.

 

[Bwana Don]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

The copper sulfate makes sense. This is exactly why we don't use pressure treated lumber on aluminum boats. Yea that rib looks a bit complicated, it's radiused in two directions! I would still try it though but I work in a fab shop/machine shop. Not saying I could do it. lol I'd try it.

Good luck.

 

[barato2]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

given that the break was caused by an unusual stress that isn't likely to be repeated and we've NEVER seen any similar breaks indicating that this might be a stress area, and it will be covered by floor so you don't have to look at it, i might have just riveted some L channel over the break.......

 

[kfa4303]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

+1. I like the idea of just adding and L or C channel across each rib for extra support and to have a level surface to attach the deck to. You can just use some small Stainless Steel sheet metal screws and/or aluminum pop rivets. Sorta like this.

 

[Rainbow hunter]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

+1. I like the idea of just adding and L or C channel across each rib for extra support and to have a level surface to attach the deck to. You can just use some small Stainless Steel sheet metal screws and/or aluminum pop rivets. Sorta like this.

View attachment 158711

Thanks kfa, I kind of like this idea, though the Falcon has a stringer that runs the length of the boat on the center line to support the floor. I think I'll take some measurements and maybe buy a piece if extruded 90 degree aluminum stock and play with the concept. It wouldn't really do anything to strengthen the ribs across the bottom, but it sure would solidify the flooring.

 

[Rainbow hunter]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

given that the break was caused by an unusual stress that isn't likely to be repeated and we've NEVER seen any similar breaks indicating that this might be a stress area, and it will be covered by floor so you don't have to look at it, i might have just riveted some L channel over the break.......

Yah, the stress created here was caused by, (1) major corrosion that happened when the floor sagged and came into contact with the areas of the rib that broke, and (2) bouncing up and down on the trailer bunks not designed for this boat while towing it on dirt roads without a tie down strap. Pure stupidity.

But I want the assurance that the structural integrity will be there that will support the 40 hp motor and speeds that are on the ID plate, so I'll spend what it takes to weld up this rib and seal up the bottom. At least it won't cost me the $4-500 I had originally anticipated. But. Boy are my legs tired from being down on my haunches several days in row getting that bottom cleaned up. Still a bit to go up in the bow area.

Thanks for your input guys. It really helps a fella think things through.

 

[jbsails]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

Hello Rainbow Hunter....I just picked up a 1071 Starcraft today and believe it too is a Falcon. Got mine for $500 here in San Diego and plan to restore her. I've enjoyed your thread and perhaps can chime in along the way as I go forward with mine. These photos were taken this morning right before purchase.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

Welcome JB
start up a thread of your own and we can watch your process as well

 

[jbsails]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

Welcome JB
start up a thread of your own and we can watch your process as well

Will do!

 

[Rainbow hunter]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

Sure looks like a Falcon. You can be sure by the number of transom braces. Should have three. Starcraft made several similar models including the Jet and the Jet Star that look very similar but all of them have either one or two transom braces. Do start a thread on your project and beside seeing what I do you'll get a great deal of helpful input. And, if you haven't already, read Lakelovers http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=524033complete thread as well as the thread by Northbeach http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=286412. Both of these guys did great restos and provided great details in their threads.

 

[North Beach]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

RH, if you're gonna weld that rib then really there's no need for additional floor supports. Just add flotation foam (my favorite is extruded) to level with the top of the center stringer and the seam plates and you'll have all the support you'll ever need for your floor. Plus it will all stiffen up just right once you rivet it all together.

 

[Rainbow hunter]

Re: My Starcraft Falcon 14 Project

Your right NB. I decided to use aluminum bolts and I've bolted the rib pieces back into place after prepping them for welding. After tacking the three pieces together I'll unbolt it and they can put it on the bench to finish it. Then to finish out the flotation I plan to glue together sections of high density construction foam to make custom fit blocks to go between the ribs. Hope to get the rib welded up next week, but I'm also devoting a great deal of time to the SS 18 now that I found an engine for it. Got to try to get it ready for Mexico by mid October or so.