1977 Seacraft Sceptre

Islandtrader · #1 12-02-2007, 10:23 AM

Is a moisture meter the same type that a woodworker would use to check his stock. What is an acceptable reading (What do one of these things cost)?

JohnB · #2 12-02-2007, 02:18 PM

This is the one I use Moisture Meter.
It comes with calibration stock materials, and tells you % moisture, with a damp, moist, wet, settings. I have yet to have it give me a false reading, although it has some limitations. You can't use it through metal based bottom paints, and it will peg on ferrous materials inside the glass.
If anyone wants to check their boats out at Longpoint in the spring, I plan on being there, and will bring it with me. Just remember, it and I are only the messenger. I have had some people get upset, especially when I am surveying a boat for sale when I show them wet transoms, coring, and stringers.
Here is a good article on interpeting moisture meter readings article .

htillman · #3 12-03-2007, 12:07 AM

Thanks for the info, I am going to purchase a meter. I can use it for other things, are most Potter Seacrafts decks built with balsa coring or plywood. I found balsa on the foredeck but were items bolted on (cleats, bowrail) plywood. I am going to mount custom made tackle boxes to the deck and was interested in whether to I should go into the deck for inspections.

Islandtrader · #4 12-03-2007, 10:17 AM

Not cheap, however if it saves you from tearing up a whole deck,the price is worth it.
Thanks for the information.

htillman · #5 12-03-2007, 11:55 AM

There about $350, ordered one last night. Your right, if it saves a deck money well spent.

BigLew · #6 12-03-2007, 10:29 PM

et23

You might want to check this out.
http://www.professionalequipment.com...CMP=KNC-Google

Also, check out some of the wood working tool sites. You can possibly get something for a bit less $$$, albeit for the "hobbiest" vs. the Pro. Just a thought.

Also, if you have a friend who does a lot of wood working or know a cabinet maker, maybe they could suggest something or at least tell you what features you need or not need.

htillman · #7 12-10-2007, 12:38 AM

I purchased a meter and found the deck to be much drier than expected. The meter is a great tool to check the condition of boats. A bit expensive but provided very valuable information about the decks and hatches.