Driftboat Bottom

GOT2FISH · 03-14-2004, 03:52 PM

How hard is it to replace the bottom of a driftboat oh ya its wood I have some wood skills but mostly home hobby kinda stuff,

any help

Amahnee · 03-14-2004, 04:13 PM

I would replace it with a new aluminum DB, preferably a Fishcraft. I'm being a smartie pants though. I couldn't tell you how or where to begin. :tongue:

GOT2FISH · 03-14-2004, 05:56 PM

Darn good idea but I think the plywood and glue would be cheaper But I could be wrong :grin:

Water Ready · 03-14-2004, 07:35 PM

Call Me! It's what we do and you can help! [img]graemlins/idea.gif[/img]
Happy Fishn'
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GOT2FISH · 03-14-2004, 09:27 PM

I didnt know you did that too. This is kinda of a funny thing it seems as though the missing driftboat has been located I'll fill you in tommarow but I think you know the story.

ampersat · 03-15-2004, 06:22 AM

Do a search on Dogfish. He rebuilt the bottom of his boat not too long ago and has lots of advice and pics to go along with it.

James in Idaho · 03-15-2004, 06:59 AM

I'm right in the middle of replacing mine. Using 3/8" marine grade fir, will have one layer of 12 oz fiberglass on the inside surface (to prevent checking, and a lighter weight cloth, 4 or 5 oz would work as well), then two layer of same cloth on the exterior. The bottom will be glued (3M 5200) and screwed to the bottom with brass screws. So far the most difficult job has been scarfing the bottom sheets together, take you time there. If you are in the Portland area, I'd contact Ray Heater at Ray's River Dories, I think they can supply you with already scarfed wood. I have no interest in his business, but he has been very helpful in answering my questions.

Removing the bottom on mine was pretty easy due to wasted fasteners (rusted away), and I don't think epoxy resin was used. A heat gun is a great tool, I was able to lift my old glass off the bottom with just heat and a paint scraper. It came off in pretty much one big sheet.

Best deals on fiberglass cloth I found on ebay, and I ordered my epoxy resin from Raka, very quick and very helpful.

Oh yeah, measure twice, cut once. [img]graemlins/1zhelp.gif[/img] I built a couple of new ribs twice.