stringer rot

i dont think my boat has any stringer rot but how do you tell if it does. i want to check and find out early so if i do have some rot it dosent turn into a big problem later.
thanks,
mikey

Probably save you some time. Is it a twenty year old boat? Were the stringers ever replaced before? If you answered yes to the first question and no to the second question, then the answer to your question about whether or not you have stringer rot is yes, you do.

Look along the base of the stringers for any cracking. This indicates that rotten stringers are separating from the hull. Look for obvious weak or soft spots that are damp. The wood behind these spots will crumble when touched. Use the base of a screwdriver and systematically tap on the stringers. Listen for a change in the sound. When you find an area like that poke the tip of an ice pick into that area. If it goes in easily, the wood is rotten. Tighten any bolts that go into the stringers. If they just turn and turn without getting any tighter, the wood is rotten.

You may even try some exploratory surgery. Cut away a small patch of glass from a suspect area. You'll see what is back there. That can be patched.

Duck, Did you just get this 77? You sign your posts as being a CC owner for 13 years.

I love your analogy of rotted wood to a "wet Cigar". We'll have to start using it here on the site!!

I don't think we should go dragging slick willy into are analogies.

Brainard;
I was a Correct Craft Promo Team Member from 1993 to 2002. Got out, later sold my 02. My neighbor, who drug me around the lake everyday all summer when I was a kid had a 77 Ski Tique.
My kids wanted me to get another boat, so I decided to look for an old one. The price was right, it ran perfect last summer. Then the rebuild. WOW! It is worth it though. Getting down to the final touches. Can't wait. Will post pics when done.