Metal frame rusted out of fiberglass hull

[Goldberry]

I wonder if I can pick anyones brains. I just bought my first boat (old project 30ft motor cruiser.) She's now on hardstanding and i am stripping everything out to re-fit. I found today the metal frame (deck and internal ribs) inside the fiberglass has rusted away where previous owners have drilled through it. Is this very serious? Should i try and rip it out and replace it or should I leave it in place and build an internal timber frame to take the weight of walking on the deck. Am planning to live aboard but would like to go to sea too if possible. Am well out of my depth and growing very wary of "experts" who want to make money out of me!

 

[William_H]

The additional reinforcing may be an easier way to go. I assume that removal of the steel structure would be very difficult. It is likely very strong as it is but if you are concerned then you need to fix it until you are confident. Get a few friends to walk on the deck while you watch from underneath. sorry can't really help much but good luck ...olewill

 

[oldsaltoz]

G'day Goldberry and welcome to the forums and your first posting.

Why anyone would even contemplate putting mild steel inside a fibreglass rib is beyond me, built to fail.

But not all is lost, I would avoid adding any timber frames as they may also fail in time, steel rusts, timber rots. However, you may like to consider leaving the steel in place and adding more glass reinforcing. This only work if the steel has all but rusted away; if there is still a lot left it may swell and bust out as it corrodes.

The other alternative is to grind along the point the existing glass meets the cabin and remove the steel, then stick a strip on foam there and glass over it for a lasting fix.

I suspect you will be forced to take some sort of action as the rusting will continue and weaken the whole structure.

Avagoodweekend......