squeekycurd
New member
- Joined
- Jun 22, 2020
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Hi all,
Long time lurker, new member. Ive spent the past few months swapping a Polaris SLTX 1050cc 2 stroke/jet pump into a 1975 Starcraft aluminum hull. I should mention, this is my first boat project. First boat ever actually, I am not familiar with how machines handle on water. Over the past week I've had the chance to run it on the water for engine tuning and found concern in the amount of flex in the hull under my feet. While the hull is cross braced in 3 locations and does not twist or distort in any way, I'm concerned about the thin aluminum sheeting when hitting waves.
I've have found plastic is used to reinforce the hull from impact damage and wondered if adding an extra layer would benefit the structure of the aluminum. Good idea yea?
If so, HDPE or UHMW. HDPE seems to be available from local building supply stores in 0.125 or 0.25 thickness and is relatively cost effective at $100 for 4x8 sheets. UHMW on the other hand is harder to get and holds a higher price tag.
Any other thoughts? Am I overly concerned about the 'floor' of the boat wobbling around under my feet? would aluminum reinforcement be a better idea?
Thanks all, looking forward to seeing opinions on the matter.
Tanner
(Trying to figure out this image thing)
https://imgur.com/8FThIpE
https://imgur.com/BN7NOz6
Long time lurker, new member. Ive spent the past few months swapping a Polaris SLTX 1050cc 2 stroke/jet pump into a 1975 Starcraft aluminum hull. I should mention, this is my first boat project. First boat ever actually, I am not familiar with how machines handle on water. Over the past week I've had the chance to run it on the water for engine tuning and found concern in the amount of flex in the hull under my feet. While the hull is cross braced in 3 locations and does not twist or distort in any way, I'm concerned about the thin aluminum sheeting when hitting waves.
I've have found plastic is used to reinforce the hull from impact damage and wondered if adding an extra layer would benefit the structure of the aluminum. Good idea yea?
If so, HDPE or UHMW. HDPE seems to be available from local building supply stores in 0.125 or 0.25 thickness and is relatively cost effective at $100 for 4x8 sheets. UHMW on the other hand is harder to get and holds a higher price tag.
Any other thoughts? Am I overly concerned about the 'floor' of the boat wobbling around under my feet? would aluminum reinforcement be a better idea?
Thanks all, looking forward to seeing opinions on the matter.
Tanner
(Trying to figure out this image thing)
https://imgur.com/8FThIpE
https://imgur.com/BN7NOz6