To replace or not to replace - foam that is

[WhoopinBass]

I am currently redoing a 18' aluminum Smokercraft. The transom is removed and the deck (or whats left) will be this weekends project. Looks like the manufacture (?) drilled holes in the plywood deck and inserted expanding foam on the outside of each stringer. My question is, if the foam is in good shape, not soggy, should I deck over it OR is is worth it to tear it out gluvit all the rivets and replace the foam with some alternative. I have been following the recent post on "tell me about foam" seems to have rasised more questions than answers.

Thanks for help. New to restoration and appreciate all the advice and project links

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: To replace or not to replace - foam that is

if you plan on keeping the boat for a while, and it has been leaking, gulvit will be it's best friend.

 

[1730V]

Re: To replace or not to replace - foam that is

if you plan on keeping the boat for a while, and it has been leaking, gulvit will be it's best friend.

Agreed! I've done it before and never had a leak. There are options for foam.

 

[WhoopinBass]

Re: To replace or not to replace - foam that is

Update;

Tore out decking yesterday. Foam appears in good shape. Only used on the outside of the aluminum stringers so any water that gets in can run to the center. I think I will leave the foam. It was filled after the deck was on so it is right up against the wood, I dont like that. Would routering out an inch of foam under the wood make a difference. I would think it would allow some circulation. Does a moisture meter for wood work on the foam???

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: To replace or not to replace - foam that is

cut some notches in some pvc, then screw it into the foam, then push the foam out. you will know if it's wet. do a couple of core samples. i ran some 1x4's cross wise my aluminum stringers to allow for an air space, run them so the wood will joint on them 16 inchs on center.