Rot in the Gunwale.

[268DancerNY]

I am curious if this is structural? I am 85% sure it is not from some of the searching I have done.
Its on a 268 Sundancer, my plan was to cut it out to make room for a sub-woofer since it wasn't doing much.
I may put a 2x4 going vertical for some insurance, I know this happens from the radar arch leaking I am going to be re bracing the radar arch as well + caulking it properly.
I don't use the side pocket much and that's all this looked like it supported hoping my thought process was correct. :smt024



Any way hello! My names Paul and I am a new owner to this boat as well as a new member to these forums, sold my previous boat a Mark Twain 210 SF with a 470/Alpha to buy a bigger hole lol.

 

[fwebster]

Not structural to the hull, but it is part of the structure for the cockpit. This is a prime example iof how Sea Ray construction changed from the 80's to the mid 90's. The plywood wasn't sealed and something above isn't sealed properly and has allowed water to enter the combing. THe only proper fix is to remove the rotten wood and replace it with s well sealed replacement, even if it involves the use of resins and glass cloth.

 

[268DancerNY]

Well it does not seem to have any mounting points for the upholstery, The wood in those is being completely re-done.
I know it adds structure to the storage area, but I will not being using that often if at all for nothing heavy.
I will be adding a 2x4 where 2 pieces of plywood were that will brace the upper portion of the gunwale but I was walking back and fourth on that with no flex etc.
It's going to get covered up I'm thinking about just not putting the cubby hole back in that panel.

 

[munko]

I have some rot in my coaming bolster as well. Plan on rebuilding mine this summer. I stumbled on these videos.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jH_W_d4ZFwE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQNVciJyTYY