I have researched this topic multiple times, so I felt comfortable enough to cut into the deck of my O'day 22 to begin replacing a wet core beneath the mast.
I first cut out about a 12" x 12" area immediately surrounding the mast. I expected the core to be wet and weak, but this core was POWDER (soaking wet powder). Is was to the point where the only tools needed for removal were a deep breath and a feather duster.
I then cut out a much larger area. It again came out easily, although it starts to show signs of resistance towards the edges.
MY QUESTION: Should I let the areas dry out a bit before further cutting/exploration? The size of this repair (originally expecting it to be maybe 12" x 36" at most) is starting to get bigger by the second. Is this deck salvageable?
Mike (on behalf of S/V Irie)
I first cut out about a 12" x 12" area immediately surrounding the mast. I expected the core to be wet and weak, but this core was POWDER (soaking wet powder). Is was to the point where the only tools needed for removal were a deep breath and a feather duster.
I then cut out a much larger area. It again came out easily, although it starts to show signs of resistance towards the edges.
MY QUESTION: Should I let the areas dry out a bit before further cutting/exploration? The size of this repair (originally expecting it to be maybe 12" x 36" at most) is starting to get bigger by the second. Is this deck salvageable?
Mike (on behalf of S/V Irie)