[Vermilion]

Hi All,

I picked up an '89 Carolina Skiff as a project to familiarize myself working with things like fiberglass and gel coat.

When I was washing down the boat, I was under the impression that these two "modular decks" (please tell me if there if a more correct term) were cored with wood.

Now that I have one off and have flipped it over, it seems to have a foam core material. I know it's in poor shape, but it almost seems like that green floral foam. Is anyone familiar with this material? Or the best was to proceed with a repair?



The underside of the rear removable deck



This is the top side. I'm guessing my best course of action is to sand it down and apply new gel coat?

 

[JC Designs]

Being an ‘89, it’s wood unless it’s been repaired already! It looks like the factory plywood squares they used for years and years. I’d also be willing to bet it’s a little spongy. Not sure what the foam you are seeing is. Could be anything.

 

[Vermilion]

Being an ‘89, it’s wood unless it’s been repaired already! It looks like the factory plywood squares they used for years and years. I’d also be willing to bet it’s a little spongy. Not sure what the foam you are seeing is. Could be anything.

I think you are correct. The foam is only around a few of those opening. Someone's half-assed attempt to fix the rot. The rest is wood mush.

I suppose I need to go down to Harbor Freight and pick up an oscillating multi tool to cut out the core.

 

[JC Designs]

Or a diamond tile wheel for a 4” grinder if ya have one. I would support the deck real good before cutting out the core.