stringers original can i remove center one for tank ??

[goingdeep]

Hi !1 I have a 1967 222aquaspoet. Im in the process of a rebuild. Can i remove the middle stringer from say the livewell back and build a tank bed ??? Or what is the best way ?? THANKS!!    

[seabob4]

Most builders, Aquasport included, don't have a keel stringer under the fuel tank.  They install tanks that contour to the hull bottom at the keel so as to maximize tankage.  You should have outboard stringers, the stringers that form the port and starboard bulkheads surrounding your tank compartment, and then the inboard stringers fore and aft of the athwartships bulkheads that form your fore and aft compartrment bulkheads.  

Typically, at the keel, the hull layup is about 1 1/4" thick.  It really doesn't need a keel stringer.

[LilRichard]

Seabob- that is true of ASs built after '71.  The early boats had five stringers and no bulkheads.

IMHO, yes, you can remove part of that stringer, but *only* if you build perpindicular bulkheads at the front and rear of the tank that connects the remaining part of the stringer to the other stringers.  Does that make sense?

If not, I can try to find some pictures to aid in explanation.

[seabob4]

Rich,
I'll post a pic tomorrow that shows how to tie in the stringers and bulkheads,

[goingdeep]

Thanks guys!! I some what know what your saying. I prety much have to bulkhead front back and my lay up would be about 1 inch??. Yes Richard there are five stringers. and the are original. I would like to port some pictures but im not that good with that. Im taking pictures of every step and will learn to post to share with all. Spread the build. LOL Thanks and im looking forword to the pictures. Thanks rick!!

[seabob4]

Here is a typical fuel tank cavity, with longitudal stringers and bulkheads surrounding it.  Notice no keel stringer.  This is a Proline 20 Sport hull.

20sport

Hope this gives you some insight.