Here we go again - Advice

[rojac]

Hi

Looking at a 4.0m V tinnie, am going to downgrade from my existing fibre glass boat. Given that's all I've ever had, can those of you who have experience with alloy boats advise me on what to look for apart from welds when attempting to determine build quality outside the obvious.

I've checked out 70 odd pages of topics here and there appears to be good and bad in all brands.

I've only had a good look at one brand and on the surface the finish looks crappy. This might be tolerated if its reflected in the cost of the hull but not in this instance.

Thanks

Rojac

[Spaniard_King]

Rojac,

make sure you get a fully welded tinny>>> no rivets

Take note of the amount of bracing/ribs each manufacturer installs, pay particular attention to the planning/chop area as this is where a tinny is most likely to fail with high use/abuse

cheers

Garry

[rojac]

Thanks Gary.

I've noticed that some have an external keel. Is there any advantage in this design??

Chhers

Rojac

[seatime]

rojac

Not sure what you mean by external keel, but if you looked at the standard pressed 4.0m hull the keel carrys all the weight on a trailer. The external keel may be to help it track better as they are fairly flat bottom. Or added protection. Or I'm completely wrong.
There are some 4.0m on the market with full gunnels, this is a desirable feature IMO. Also look at bracing and strength around the transom if you want to hang max hp off it. cheers