Posted by ken on June 11, 2003 at 13:49:26:
In Reply to: Re: How much structure can you cut for engine clearance? posted by Paul on June 11, 2003 at 08:50:24:
Well, I am doing something similar. I have cut the ply floor down flush with the bottom frame, and added solid timber as another floor piece on the other side from the ply floor. I have heard that you are not supposed to attach the frames direcrly to a engine stringers.
I am hoping the architects can enter this discussion to give some parameters to the way to accomodate this issue. I would hope for parameters such as: (for example)1. you must keep mods between stringers, 2. you must not mod more than two frames, 3. detail the amount of added materiel for a given amount taken away.
I wish there was a published rule for this. I umderstand that a designer cannot detail engine installation when the engine of the builders choice is an unknown. However, the designer should detail how to make the frames accomodate modifications to some degree.
: Ken, I had the same problem when I put a 350 diesel and velvet drive into my Mai Tai. The bellhousing was right on the frame. I cut the plywood out of the frame to clear the bellhousing by a couple of inches on either side. Then I re-framed the cut out (edges)with 1x3 Mahogany. I then made a removable cross member just aft of the frame to tie the engine bearers together. I think as long as you tie it together athwartships at some point close to the cutout, you won't sacrifice much strength.
: That vibrating heavy diesel hasn't loosened any joints as of yet. The deck planking also serves to strengthen the frame.
: Hope this helps....