26' stringer (grid) problems

[publius]

I know the grid system was notorious for coming loose in the bow area of older 26 cc's. you obviously want to have structural integrity throughout the hull but would you be able to tell if there is a problem without visually inspecting the area? I want everything to be right but I don't want to cut into the deck if it isn't a huge problem if it isn't still firmly attached. Cost/benefit??

[getthenetmontauk]

What makes you thing there is a problem?

[buzzk]

Before I bought my 26 I called Regulator and asked bout the stringer issue. I was told it didn't effect as many boats as the internet would leave you to believe. They then told me what to look for and told me to send them pictures of the area if I wan't sure or had any questions. The boat I bought didn't have a problem. Regulator was very helpful and forth coming.

[Seajbee]

Were any other models affected with grid problems? I have a 23 and once I heard of the problems with the 26 it made me start wondering. I have a hard time believing it was isolated to the 26. What would be the reason it only affected the 26?

[boatshop85]

buzzk--where did they tell you to look and take pictures for the stringer problems? I'm looking at a 98 Reg 26 and want to be sure i'm checking all the possible problem areas.

[vze2gbs4]

Boatshop-is the boat you are looking at located in Mass ,blue hull with green bottom paint ?

[buzzk]

Originally Posted by boatshop85

buzzk--where did they tell you to look and take pictures for the stringer problems? I'm looking at a 98 Reg 26 and want to be sure i'm checking all the possible problem areas.

From what I remember I was told to look along the chines especially in the area parallel to the cc. Also if you see any cracks along the bottom. My boat didn't have any bottom paint and was able to look it over really well. I have an Express and didn't have any cracks anywhere. When I replaced my fuel tank we had to cut the deck out and confirmed that I didn't have any problems.

[riley]

Check front fish box and porta potty floor those areas on my boat had stress cracks . In the front fish box the access hole remove cove4 and look in with a 3’ flex camera or longer you can get them at harbor freight.

[riley]

Check front fish box and porta potty floor those areas on my boat had stress cracks in the corner where floor & wall meet . In the front fish box the access hole can give you visuals, remove cover and look in with a 3’ flex camera or longer you can get them at harbor freight. You can look and see if deck & grillage are bonded together . Pm me I can tx or email pic.

[21RegulatorMaine]

I had a 1996 21 regulator that had the hull delaminate. I spoke with Al at Regulator and he said they had no other reports of a 21 having that issue. I'm not sure of the construction process or materials used on the 26 vs the 21 but I would guess they would be pretty similar.