Fulldeck Bottom Seams

[Alvarez1112]

What is the general consensus as to where to add a strip to the bottom of a hull to achieve a boat wider than 4' sheets allow? I've seen it done with a small center strip and also with a full sheet down the middle and seamed toward the outside. What is everyone's thought process on the matter? Thanks!

 

[Rich Andrews]

middle have owned 2 that way, wont mess up the spacing on stringers either.

 

[Seven3]

I believe Al David does it with the full sheet down the center. Whereas most of the SoFlo builders use the thin strip, that varies in width depending on the boat width and side height. I think it’s a matter of preference really. There are plenty of 30 year old Thurmans sliding around with a bottom that is still true using the thin strip. But I also can see the thinking behind how Al David does it.

 

[Seven3]

How wide do you want the hull to be, and what’s your side height?

 

[Alvarez1112]

Seven yes, all the boats I've seen with the full sheet were Al David's I believe. I'm not set on width yet. Sub 8'. Probably 7'6" - 7'10" with a 10" transom.

 

[John Fenner]

I build my wide hulls with a 4' sheet up the center.

 

[Alvarez1112]

I build my wide hulls with a 4' sheet up the center.

Thank you Mr. Fenner for the response

 

[Alvarez1112]

Another question gentlemen. The seam at the bow appears to typically be stitched up using a thin stainless angle. Any recommendations on the material to use there?

 

[Seven3]

I’m not exactly sure what you mean. All mine have been plates of aluminum.

 

[Alvarez1112]

Where the sides and bottom meet at the front "corners" of the hull as the bottom is pulled up and sides pulled in.

 

[Seven3]

Where the sides and bottom meet at the front "corners" of the hull as the bottom is pulled up and sides pulled in.

Gotcha. Pretty sure that’s aluminum as well, but maybe John Fenner will chime back in.

 

[Alvarez1112]

A86628FA-A9D6-45DD-B82A-062A4217C7D6.jpegI’m not exactly sure what you mean. All mine have been plates of aluminum.

That one definitely appears to be aluminum as well.

I checked my Thurman once I got home. It's for sure aluminum. Maybe it's just the palm beach boats I've seen using what I thought to be stainless.

 

[Slidin Gator]

Maybe it's just the palm beach boats I've seen using what I thought to be stainless.

Palm Beach hulls use a "Cap" angle on the outside, seams butted and riveted on the inside. Aluminum is preferred with poly to minimize corrosion, but SST is a better move with slick bottom for durability.

 

[John Fenner]

As Seven3 posted!