Can someone explain the proper installation of stingers? A few questions why have the stringers off hull and I've heard some talk about putting popsicle sticks under the stinger. Also what should I use to glue the stinger down? Thank you in advance.
Just a quick reply, the popsicle sticks or dowels or foam, are used to prevent the stringers from being in direct contact with the hull and causing a hard connection between the two, possibly leading to stress cracks or fractures...at least that is what I have read here...
Gluing the stringers down is done with either PB [peanut butter] or PL [polyurethane adhesive]...again, just passing on aquired Iboats knowledge...
I have been pondering the same question myself. I have heard to use PL to 'bed' the stringers. The reasons I have read about for keeping them off the hull is to prevent hard spots that will introduce unwanted stresses to the hull glass. I had concerns with using PL, thinking it cured to a very hard state. I have just started an experiment on my thread to see how it actually cures. Been 48 hours and it still is a little soft, not near as hard as I thought it would be. I will be using PL for sure on mine when the time comes.
Bottom line is... On small boats (under 25') it's not as critical as it is on larger boats. However it's still a good practice. Here on the forum it's recommended to use PL Construction adhesive or Peanut Butter(Resin thickened with Cabosil and 1/4" Chopped Milled Fibers) Lifting the stringers off the hull with from 1/8 to 1/4 inch. This allows the hull to flex from the pounding of waves and wakes and keeps it from cracking. On smaller boats this does not occur as much unless there are weak spots in the hull but again it's still a good thing to do. The first link in my signature below, has drawings and info on the recommended methods for fabricating and installing Decks, stringers and transoms.
Thanks but... There's a lot more knowledgeable guys on here than me. I just read and research alot and pass on what I learn. I have some experience but not nearly as much as OOPS, Yacht Doctor and some of the others. Just glad that what I have learned can benefit others.
