Builders' Forum Archives

Deck curvature question

Posted by Joe Oliver on Feb 11, 2006

I'm about ready to install the front deck and I've planed the shear to the correct curvature but when I do a dry run with the installation I see a flat spot near the bow. The reason is that even though the port/starboard radius is correct, the fore/aft is not a strait line. Since the bow has a slight curve upwards, the constant radius causes a flat spot near the bow.

Is this normal? I'm wondering if I should add some additional cross members near the bow so the deck will take a constant curve over the whole distance or remove the raking of the bow.

I don't plan to install any hatches so the long deck won't have obstructions. I put hatches on my LT17 and have been dissapointed ever since. I use the boat at my house and always return to the dock so I don't need the storage. I'm thinking a small stainless drainplug like a sunfish uses will be sufficient to drain any trapped water or moisture.

Any suggestions or comments? Joe Oliver