Best Material for Gunnels

[Monterey10]

I have an older Bayliner. It used puny 1X4" wood for gunnels. I want to replace the material and make it a least 1" thick. The gunnel will need to support the Scotty downrigger and flush mount rod holders.

Do you think Starboard would be strong enough to resist the twisting that a downrigger would put on the gunnel or, should I use some kind of hard wood. The following picture shows how little fiberglass I have to mount the gunnel to. Thanks in advance...

 

[Mike Ryan]

as long as you bolt the starboard down good and thru bolt the downrigger thru them, there should be no issues

 

[mud runner]

The Scotty 1025 mount is secured to the side of the gunnel so that there is no stress on the top portion and no twisting force that you speak of.

http://www.scotty.com/marine/products/product/downriggers/drmounts/1025.html

 

[jtybt15]

A lot will depend on what size downrigger you have. The big electric one will put a little more torque than a hand one. The strongest area will be in the corner where you have support in both directions of pull.

Oh, I would use a SS plate for a base but 1" starboard would also work. So would 1" white oak.

 

[Monterey10]

How about a good source for Starboard. Around here, it's expensive. I feel like I should be getting gift wrapping for the cost.

 

[jtybt15]

Go to Tap Plastics.