Has anyone used composite boards for the core of stringers or bulkheads? Most companies claim they are stronger than wood and will not absorb moisture. I was considering them for my project when I remove the sole and stringers.

TIA

if you are talking about a trex product or something similiar, they are not stronger than wood, actually quite a bit weaker, if you are talking about a lvl or lsl lumber product, yes they are quite a bit stronger and some boat builders have already used them before....

LVL's are very heavy!

I think Trex is more what I was referring. I will steer clear of that.

good idea, there is a reason they still use structural wood underneath a trex deck...

For stringers I like to epoxy laminate two 3/4" marine plywood pieces mounted on a 3 or 4 x 3/4" pad or shoe at the hull floor. Glass over it all and it will probably last lots longer than you will want to keep the boat. (unless you are an old fart like me and are still running a restored '77 classic "V") --- Jer

Funny, I am a young thing with an old project 1979 Formula.

As soon as it starts to warm up I am going to remove all the interior fiberglass and stringers to the original mold and start fresh.

OK, you got my attention. You sound like you really want to do it right. Remember that when you remove all that internal structure the hull becomes very flexible and you need to make the outer hull surface ridged and as formed in the original mold or as you want it to conform based on later technology. (I removed the factory "hook" among other things) The gains can be very rewarding. Do not overlook this opportunity to evaluate drive height and raise it from the 70's standards. --- Jer

Yes, I am preparing to build a cradle to hold thebottom rigid. I did not have a hook, but i will check it closer when the cradle is built. It is going to take me a long time to do this project as i gather a few things here and there. I am doing it all outside, my shop is too small for this one.

Just finished the deck and floor of my dads bass boat so time to try and get back on my project. i also have to get a swim deck built for my Sea Ray 220DA. I am adding three feet to the built in platform for diving.

This is what was used to replace the rear bulkhead in my 31 Sonic.

http://www.boatbuildercentral.com/pr...dacore%20Panel