FS 18 Deck Modifications

[flatsaholic]

Hey I am about to start my build. I know pretty much everyone says not to change to plans. I do not plan on changing anything but the deck. My question for you is, do you think its possible to chine the upper part of the boat or the deck. Just like the bottom of the boat is chined in, I want to chine the top of the boat out. I am thinking of 2-3 inches out to block splash and to give more area to walk about on sides and decks.

Side question: Is mostly everyone putting in permanent fuel tank under front deck and trolling motor battery if needed? I am thinking it will balance out the boat better but I am not sure. I would like the battery and tank up front if possible.

Thank you!

[tech_support]

You can extend the deck out over the hullsides, that's pretty simple.

[flatsaholic]

Sweet thanks! So you would build as normal and then just extend the deck out instead of flaring the deck out gradualy? I am not sure if I'm explaining what I mean well. I was thinking flaring out the hullsides then placing the deck on top of that.

[jacquesmm]

Flaring would be difficult but to extend the deck is easy. Build a wide rubrail, put your extended deck over it, build a nice wide fillet under it and it's done.

What is the purpose? A few more inches of deck space?

[flatsaholic]

Sounds good I think thats what I will do then. The purpose is just because I want to really. Some extra deck space is always nice and I am hoping it will make the boat more of a dryer ride.

[jacquesmm]

Don't extend it too much or it will flex.
4" would be OK, up to 6 with a nice outwale (laminated rubrail on the outside) under it.

[flatsaholic]

Thanks Jacquesmm. I was thinking maybe 3 inches on both sides.

[tech_support]

I dont think its a bad idea at all, I would probably do it if I built an FS18.

You are going to need to build up some thickness on the edge in order to attach a rubrail. you can do that from the underside, or make a toe rail on the topside.

this is how I made extra thickness on the underside of the jet boat swim platform - needed to put a 3/4" round stainless piece on there. I think your boat might look a lot nicer with a topside toe rail - which would be easier anyway

[flatsaholic]

These ideas are helping me out a lot thank you. I might be able to come up with a model and see which one seems to be the best.

[flatsaholic]

This link is similar to what I was thinking but not that much. Of course this isn't the same kinda boat but the same idea I had. Scroll towards the bottom to see the deck.

http://www.philspaddleboat.com/1-building-the-hull.html