Rotted Stringers

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Away On Busine$$
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Rotted Stringers

Post by Away On Busine$$ »

Is there a simple or guaranteed method to detect stringer issues. I do not see any indication of failure from the outside of the stringers and have tapped in several places with a hammer and seam to get a consistent sound that I assume ( Yeh I know ass of you and me ) is solid or every one is rotten.
Season is short, we make the best of it.
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bjanakos
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Re: Rotted Stringers

Post by bjanakos »

There are methods to further detect if the stringers or hull are wet, but usually the first test is a good rap with a hammer.

You are correct that you want to hear a consistent sound throughout, but what you are looking for is a nice solid "thunk" and some rebound from the hammer. If you hear a dead spot, or the hammer does not bounce back, it may be trouble.
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Big D
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Re: Rotted Stringers

Post by Big D »

Simple method? sound it with a mallet and take a moisture reading. Guaranteed method? drill with a hole saw to get core samples. Even when you've sounded for years, there are always some that leave you wondering. That's when you drill core samples to confirm.
She was a 1969 36 ft wooden beauty with big blue 440s that we'll miss forever.
And thanks to the gang, 2012 Trojan Boater Of The Year
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