Question about my Project...

[texasboy112]

I have a 14 ft. Alumacraft 1436 LT with a 15 H.P. Mercury motor. I read Heynow's topic https://www.tinboats.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=18990 about his complete modification of his identical boat (which he did a great job on). My questions are: How did the boat perform (after) the mods, and especially how did it sit in the water (depth) after adding that much weight.

Also, if the weight aspect is a concern, what would be an alternative to making the boat (bottom and sides) quieter without utilizing all the wood for a deck and floor. Any advice that you may have on a spray on product, carpeting, or mats, etc. would be a great help to me. I'm not even sure what adhesive/glue to use. Thank you so much for your help...

 

[onthewater102]

I've got the same boat (1436LT), but unlike Heynow I wanted to keep the boat light. I used FRP sheeting (from home depot or lowes) backed by 2 lb expanding marine urethane foam (the finished combination is hard as concrete.) You could support the front deck with as little as a single 8' piece of 1/8" thick 1" aluminum angle, the FRP and the foam for ~$150. (I WAY over did it on my build) https://www.tinboats.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=33630. I added a front compartment with a piece of tubing run down from the bow to the rear of the boat, which I would recommend you do as well, as it gave bow splash someplace to drain through the foam to the rear of the boat.

With everything bolt on removed (gas motor & electric trolling motor) gas tank, battery, seats etc. my wife and I are able to lift and carry the decked boat with no problem.

I used Tuff Coat rubberized paint on mine (though I haven't updated the post with pictures of the middle deck/ livewell & painting).

 

[onthewater102]

As far as performance there was no noticeable difference to before hand (freeboard, speed etc.)