Boat Rivets

[surfindude]

Would like to buy a 1998 Princecraft 221 Ventura. Was wondering if anyone has had experience with a riveted boat?
The hull appears to be riveted and I was wondering if this was good or if they work themselves loose and cause problems.
Anyone have a Ventura and what is your opinion of the boat.

Thanks

[Bailey Boat]

Welcome to the best board on the net.......

As far as the rivited boats go, you're correct they will loosen over the years and may even leak as a result. BUT, on the good side, in most cases you can tighten them back up if you have access to both sides. I don't personally have experience with the Princecraft so I can't speak to that portion of your question but I'm sure someone will chime in and give some feedback................

[yaktoo]

check out aluminum boats with all welded hulls. I believe they hold up better to pounding than riveted hulls.

[auguste]

Princeraft has a large share of the riveted boat market around here

I have fished many a fine day on a Princecraft on fresh water lakes . . . those I have seen used in salt water have corrosion

These are light boats . . . do not run them hard in rough seas as they will pound and the rivets will loosen

I would consider a Princecraft or equivalent if I was to fish the northern lake . . . but not the Great lakes

[stvno]

Never liked or completely trusted rivets.
I agree with yaktoo on the all welded.
I don't know where you are located, but I suggest you check out Alumaweld.