Wet Stringers, what to do?

[islander20]

Hello,

I was just checking on my Cal 20 after a couple month absence and noticed the bilge was a bit wet. I removed all the water and noticed certain sections of the stringers running parallel to the keel bolts had delaminated in areas. (An oil canning sort of feel when pushed on).

Is this a major problem? Should I drill holes into the stringers to check them out, maybe put git-rot or the like in? Or just run a heater to dry the bilge and leave it at that?

Thanks a lot!

[neilpride]

If they are soft and wet, rebuild it, gi rot dont make a boat seaworthy,

[islander20]

Dang I was worried thats what it would take. I cant find any information on the flange the keel is attached for the Cal 20 and whether those stringers near the bolts are part of it.

[neilpride]

Can you post a pic maybe?? is the boat in the wáter or out ?

Nvm, is something like this?

[UNCIVILIZED]

You're description of how she's built isn't detailed enough, but it sounds as if you'll need to check the moisture level of the base (hull) laminate itself also. Inside & out, in several spots.
Assuming it's okay, which we're rooting for, when you rebuild the stringers, you might consider using materials immune to water ingress, or close there to. G-10, Epoxy MicroLam, other H2O impervious structural synthetics, & or metals.
- Just take care not to over do it, or create any significant hard spots.

That & take a good look @ the structure of the flooring(s) AKA Keel Support Structure, & decide if perhaps it's worth beefing it up a bit, prior to epoxy sealing it. The sealing being so that this doesn't happen down the road again.

Good luck

PS: And aside from the usual knowledge resources, there's a few Cal Groups over on Yahoo

[islander20]

Originally Posted by neilpride

Can you post a pic maybe?? is the boat in the wáter or out ?

Nvm, is something like this?

Yes exactly. Though my keels bolts have no signs of rust.

[neilpride]

Well then, boat in the tráiler, and like Uncivilzed say.... something immune to rot, G10 can be a good choice if no hard spot is present ,,

[Boatyarddog]

I'd say those are stiffeners for the keel boss, help to keep the keel from pulling unevenly on the hull.
Probably, best to haul, open them up ,dig out the old stuff. And re glass some new wood in there.
When hauled, support the hull on pads and stands with just a little bit of weight on the keel.
That way it'll be supported when you go to replace the stringers, but not so much push on it from the weight of the boat.
It's a straight forward job.
With lots of room to work.
Lucky you!!!


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