Deck Cracking Sounds

[Bob Braddy]

I recentld have recently bought a Catalina 36 MK II. This is not my first Catalina boat and both of them had the same disconcerting problem, to wit: the deck makes a cracking or popping sound in certain places when walked on. The noise always comes from the same areas and always happens. Finally, I have overcome inertia and feel like asking about this noise. What is it, what causes it, and is it a problem? I have been told not to worry, but things like this always set my nerves on end. I'm sure my boat is not the only one with this problem. Does anyone have an answer for me that will conince me that all is well?

 

[Dave Emery]

Same Problem / Same Answer

I have the same problem on my 1990 C34. It's primarly around the shrouds. I've been told that if there was water penetration the core would be wet and the deck would not creek. I beleive the problem is the deck has seperated from the core (glue let loose). If the problem stays isolated to specific areas, I've been told best leave it alone. If the problem grows, then the deck would need to have holes drilled into and epoxy inserted into the holes. Sometimes the cure is worse then the problem.Thanks, Dave

 

[Sean]

Crackling

Thanks for asking that question. I have the same noises around the deck on my 30'. I've thought a lot about it, and it probably wouldn't crack if it was wet. Thanks, Sean

 

[Bob Halter]

Crackling sounds

This Is my third Catalina and the sounds I get is when the boat is being sailed hard the cracking seams to be coming from around the mast area where the wooden wedges are loacated, also I get a loud ping noise like some one has hit the mast with a hamer. The boat is only a year and half old hull 1945. I stil can not understand what is making the noise?

 

[Bill]

It's doubtful Catalina understands it either.....

Cause they've never done anything about it!I've heard pretty much all catalina 36's have that noise. I have a friend with a late 80's model 36 with the same keel stepped mast and he has the same thing. He says it's just one of those idyosyncratic things ya have to get used to (like owning a British car) and he thinks the pinging is maybe a halyard bouncing around inside the mast........or not.