Gap between stringer and deck

[Starling]

Hi all,
While stripping down this 89' SC20 project I noticed a large (3.75") gap between the deck and the stringers (looks to be factory). I'm making a new fuel tank hatch and wondered if this is normal? Obviously there is some flex at the fuel tank hatch opening, but will adding a new, stiff tank hatch be enough to remove the flex? Should I include some braces elevated across the fuel tank to help with this?

[otterhound]

I have an '89 20 SF and it has a similar gap above the stringers as well. Mine is more like 1" - 1 1/2". When I do mine I'll probably make some Potter Putty, put it in an empty caulking cartridge and shoot it in the gap. Maybe you make some mahogany filler pieces and glue them in with epoxy?
Best of luck.
Rod

[dirtwheelsfl]

Man 3.75” is approaching Maverick Boat Group standards!

Pics?

[gofastsandman]

Originally Posted by Starling

Hi all,
While stripping down this 89' SC20 project I noticed a large (3.75") gap between the deck and the stringers (looks to be factory). I'm making a new fuel tank hatch and wondered if this is normal? Obviously there is some flex at the fuel tank hatch opening, but will adding a new, stiff tank hatch be enough to remove the flex? Should I include some braces elevated across the fuel tank to help with this?

Why not re-core the old hatch?

My `89 was about 1/2 " to 1" gap there. I'm having a hard time understanding how
that makes any sense. Has the boat been apart before?

[No grave but the Seacraft]

I removed mine while doing a rebuild on an 88'. It was less of a hatch and more of a removeable deck piece. It was essentially plywood with glass on either side. I think it would be easier to start from scratch. That size gap does seem excessive though.

[Starling]

Sorry for the late response, but here's an image of what I'm referring to.

[No grave but the Seacraft]

I'm wondering if that is the gape for the rigging tube. Is it that big the entire length of the stringer?

[No grave but the Seacraft]

I'm pretty sure this is the area you're looking at.

[Starling]

Ha, I'd imagine that's exactly what I'm looking at there.
Thank you.
Looks like I'm gonna do a 1/2" marine ply 'removable deck piece' over the tank opening with epoxy and a couple layers of 1708 then marry it to the existing deck. I'm hoping that once that piece is mechanically attached that the flex across that area will diminish.