What type of wood to use for engine cover?

[wilsontowing]

I am re-building an engine cover for my inboard that will have cushion on top and seat on side, but i am having a problem on what tyoe of wood to use, just need wood that will hold, it has 50year marine wood in it now and the boat is olnt 25years old, so i dont thing i want to spend that much.....I was told MDF OR PREASURE TREATED PLYWOOD,from what Ive read on here about MDF its a no no. so is pres. ply good??? I will need 3/4 and 1/2 inch... thanks.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: What type of wood to use for engine cover?

Forget the mdf ....the slightest water infiltration will destroy it..... the pressure treated plywood is not good either...... it has to be dried.... it eats fastener's since it is treated with copper...... and is really designed for bugs and ground contact.

Get some exterior plywood that is finished on one side. It still needs to be sealed up but it will last you for as long as you need it. You can use 3/4 bit 1/2 will serve you better. If you are concerned with strength then place some hardwood braces under it and seal the entire thing with fiberglass.

Here is a good post about vacuum bagging if you want to go that route..... http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=180193&highlight=vacuum+bag

 

[cedarjunki]

Re: What type of wood to use for engine cover?

i just used 1/2" ply when i did mine.... just added a couple braces and glassed it up.... and i use it to stand on while casting in the weeds..

 

[wilsontowing]

Re: What type of wood to use for engine cover?

OK thanks again all, here are some pics, one of the wood before and the one after. A few bad spots on the fabric but not bad for my first time... Thanks

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: What type of wood to use for engine cover?

Very nice job and for a first time it looks great!

Okay where are the drink holder's ???? Oh ..... I guess I will just hold this cold bottle in my hand.......