Creaking deck fiberglass

[Jim Vonasek S/V Jolly Swagman]

Creaking deck fiberglass on my 1985 Hunter 34. There is no noticeable bouncing and since we have owned the boat the past year we have noticed no leakage anywhere, hatches or ports. It does appear that the prior owner eventually well-sealed all areas.From midship forward, however, the fiberglass creaks and pops as one walks along the sides. The sound is similar to walking on egg shells.Any suggestions to prevent any further deterioration?

 

[Bill]

Deck

What you probably have is a delamination between the deck and the wood core. I have read this about Hunters of this vintage a couple of times. This is most likly a dry delamination which means there is no water or rot involved, none the less it is a pain. The fix is pretty much the same as for a wet delamination , either drill a series of holes and inject epoxy or cut the deck around the problem area, preferably on the smooth area, lift and repoxy. Either fix will require some cosmetic work afterwards.IMO if it is a dry delamination I would let it go until the fall to fix it and not lose the sailing season.I don't think it is an urgent situation but more of an irritation.Check with your yard and see what they recommend.

 

[Larry Baswick]

Phone Hunter

I think I have the same problem and phoned technicval support at Hunter. I was told that the sound is not symptomatic of anyhting structural but the result of poorly installed filler between the deck and headliner which allows individual strands of glass to respond to the miniscule movement of the deck when walked upon. Believe it or not.

 

[Mike Ross]

What did Hunter suggest?

Larry,I have the same problem on my '86 34. Did Hunter indicate that any action needs to be taken?Thanks,Mike