testing the stringers?

[Galvestonian]

I've got the first phase of the sea hunter refit completed. and I'm wondering if I need to replace the stingers in phase II. I've read a lot about guys tearing em open, and swapping out the foam. is there a better way to see if the foam is bad except for cutting open the stringer and sickin a finger in there?

[Capt. Bob]

The quickest and easiest way to check for waterlogged foam is to drill.

Drill a hole as low as you can on the stringer and see if water drains. Drilling one as far back (again as low as possible) and raising the hull will allow the water to drain over a few days.

Drilling (cutting) with a hole saw works well. If there is no indication of water after a few days, just glass it over.

Good luck.

[Galvestonian]

thanks for the help capt Bob! tilt boat sternward, wait a few days, drill hole, if it's dry, all is well and glass up. got it!