OK,
So my little project boat, has turned into a pretty much complete rebuild and after removing some of the head inning I discovered that the majority of the wooden core looked black. After a bit of deeper inspection said wooden core especially around the mast foot was just mush! i believe this was a result of poor work, when installing through deck fittings for electrics. I have decided that it would be best practice to replace this unfit core. i was wondering if anyone has had any previous experience of this and wold be able to offer any advice.
Many Thanks Ben
Hi Ben,
Sorry we're a bit slow responding, I wasn't sure so I waited for more knowledgable folk.
Which Mac model do you have by the way?
I have an M and, to be honest, I thought it had a single skin grp deck (in fact single skin everything) but that's only me guessing.
MacGregor 26M 2009 - Sky's the Limit - Suzuki DF50
Hi Ben
What model boat do you have? There's nothing in your user profile.*
I believe all Mac's prior to around 2000 used a balsa core GRP laminate construction for the deck areas. As you've discovered, failing to seal holes, whether through-decks or just screws, can cause problems long-term.
I don't know how you'd go about replacing the core in situ, you definitely need to talk to an experienced GRP boat builder. I suspect it's not a trivial task.
* You can update your details on the site by clicking on My Account, then the Edit tab. See this page in the User Guide for more details.
Rick Jones (Treasurer), former 26X & 19 owner, Isle of Wight