Going to purchase a new aluminum boat. Something 14 ft long. Question would you buy a welded or ribitted boat. Thinking about a Duracraft or War Eagle. What is the life span on Aluminum. Having some small pin holes popping up on the bottom of a boat I purchased 8 years ago. Washed after every use. Your opinions appreciated.
17.5 Hydra Sport
140 Suzuki
Welded.I bought my Duracraft new in '96. You can’t go wrong with either brand. </font id=“blue”>
Definatly welded. I have a 1969 14’ aluminum gamefisher and the welds are good as new.
“Fishing is not a matter of life or death. It’s much more important than that!”
i’m pretty sure duracraft is out of business
Jeff Davis is my President
anywone got a used 12-15ft jon boat they wanna sell?
How much you wanna spend?
“Fishing is not a matter of life or death. It’s much more important than that!”
Me, Me, Me…Please see 14 ft Jon Boat in classifieds!!
Thanks, Jim/906-1622
I have an all weld 1994 War Eagle that has been put thru absolute HELL and it has never had any issues with leaks or anything else for that matter. Both boats are top notch vessels!!
Rog
“Double Trouble”
2001 Sea Fox 230
2001 Merc 200
If you plan on keeping it, pay the difference for welded. I have a War Eagle and it has been a good boat. Some manufacturers have some bells and whistles that others do not. I think most welded boats now come with a 20" transom - nice for rougher water.
Many have a different thickness of aluminum. That is the only reason I can think of for your issues with the pinholes. I just sold a 14’ widebody jon that was riveted and it had no leaks at all and it was 12 years old. Mine is a 16’ WE. If you would like to take a look at it, you are more than welcome. You should be able to find a good deal on one. Good Luck!
Welded. I have a 1974 Duracraft 14ft with no leaks… no motor either currenty, but no leaks. Currently being sanded to be a duck boat by Thanksgiving.
KeyWest 1720cc 90 Ymha
welded…they are more often made out of thicker alum also.
26’ Twinvee
Suzuki 175’s
www.creeksidemetalworks.com
Wareagle, I have one and it is very versatile. I love the mounting groove all the way around it. It lets you attach almost anything with a special bolt and wingnut. I have a duck blind that attaches with just 4 bolts. Rod holders the same way. depth finder and an accessory tray with a drink holder also. Well made boat.
quote:I know of a 14' or 16', Smoker Craft that looks new, if you're interested. It's a V-hull.
Originally posted by nauti-boyanywone got a used 12-15ft jon boat they wanna sell?
I have had both. The one I have now is a welded G3. Very nice and strong. The floor is riveted in, and I have popped a few of those out, but thats no big deal. I had a Lowe 1648 Big Jon that was all riveted and it leaked a little, but it was 16 years old and had been put through hell time and time again.