Posted by Haji on March 30, 2003 at 08:17:52:
Dear Boaters,
In the middle of planking process of Vigilant (LOA 42' & Beam 15').
Even the boat having sufficient Frames ( 16 units 2" x 6" lumber), lower & side Battens and Structural Bulkhead, at the certain point I feel not confidence with my Frame's Lumber. The lumber using not from top grade in the boatbuilding class i.e Douglas-fir, Mahogany, Teak Wood or local Malaysian wood Chengal and Balau. Using Kapor ( popular in the local housing industry - oily type wood). Worried for the future STRESS CRACKS on the Frames, resulting hull/deck joints start loosening and the worse part is engine misalignment & boat leaking.
The question is : Is it wise and possible to Fiberglassing the Engine Stringers (4" x 12" x 2 units) and 16 units of Frames only to avoid future Stress Cracks ? P/S the bottom planking with 3/8 x 3 layers Marine p/w and side planking x 2 layers and Fiberglassing with 7 oz Fiberglass Cloth ( Cloth & Resin from Glen-L).
Hoping someone here are willing to sharing his/her opinions.
Thank you & Best Regards,
Haji
M A L A Y S I A