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Aluminum hull bow thruster easier or harder?

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by Danvilletim, May 18, 2014.

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  1. Danvilletim, May 18, 2014
    #1
    Danvilletim

    Danvilletim Senior Member

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    Aluminum hull bow thruster easier or harder than fiberglass? (62' striker)

    Anything to watch out for?
  2. ArielM, May 18, 2014
    #2
    ArielM

    ArielM Senior Member

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    the big issue with this i would think is welding on 20-30 year old aluminum that has been submerged in salt water all these years. Aluminum should be very clean anytime welding is done. Not that it can't be welded, but i would assume it makes it harder. still faster then glass though...
  3. Danvilletim, May 18, 2014
    #3
    Danvilletim

    Danvilletim Senior Member

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    Older aluminum less weld able? Audio gauge came out with no noticeable loss.
  4. dsharp, May 18, 2014
    #4
    dsharp

    dsharp Senior Member

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    lake jackson, tx
    Aluminum gets a build up on the surface that has to be removed to a shiny surface before it can be welded. It also tends to crack when it gets old. It can be done, they weld up old crew boats all of the time
  5. TeKeela, May 28, 2014
    #5
    TeKeela

    TeKeela Member

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    NC & Puerto Rico
    Friend of mine ran a 62' striker, Hakvoort built, installed a hydraulic American bow thruster. No issues and it was a great help getting that thing to move off a dock or maneuver in tight quarters with all that windage. My profile name is in honor or the owner, he was a very friendly guy and we got to use the boat whether he was around or not. Love those boats. Love the beam!