Removing styrofoam from sides of 16 angler cockpit

[mshepherd]

I just had to tear out the styrofoam from the side of my 16 angler to track down an electrical issue. I was just wondering if anyone leaves this out? I was concerned about strength of the gunnel without the foam in there but it seems like it is good. I would like to put some rod storage a a shelve in there.

[Larry H]

When manufactured and sold new, the 16 ft C-Dory has to meet the USCG level floatation requirement. This requirement applies to all boats under 20 ft long.

Removal of the foam may defeat the level floatation and also the ability of the boat to remain above the surface if flooded.

Defeating the level floatation requirement could put you and your guests at risk and could void insurance coverage.

[mshepherd]

Thanks for the tip, I have noticed many mods on this site where people remove the styrofoam to create storage. I am just wondering if anyone thinks that the original design was expecting the foam there for strength or if it is there strictly for floatation.

[Alyssa Jean]

It is strictly for flotation. There is also a block of foam behind the bulkhead up in the bow. The 16 I just bought had the side foam removed on one side when they repowered and replace the control cables. It wasn't replaced.

[thataway]

Is this actually styrofoam? If so it is probably not structural. But many boats do have foam poured or molded in place. Although this is not essential, it will often dampen sound and gives some support. In the 16, I persoanlly would want to be sure that there is adequate foam floatation.

[Montana Kev]

This is sort of related to the styrofoam question. On the 22's there is an open storage bin built into the side walls. Does anyone know where I can get these bins as an aftermarket item to add to a 16?

Thanks,
Kevin