Wet Bilge Mildew?

[Rakozy]

I just purchased a 1982 DS II and opened up the two inspection ports for a look. It's somewhat wet/damp inside the bilge area. Should I take some action to combat mildew? What do others do?

Once I figure out what do do about the moisture, I want to insert pool noodles for additional flotation.

Rakozy

[jeadstx]

If it is damp in the bilge, the old flotation may be waterlogged. Open the drain in the stern and dry out the bilge. Sometimes the seals on the old 4" inspection ports are bad and leak during rain while on the trailer. Mine did. There is a thread on the forum the has the replacement part listed for the DS inspection ports if yours need replacing.

I also replaced my flotation with pool noodles.

John

[Rakozy]

Thanks for your reply. I'll take a look at some chunks of old flotation material and determine their condition.

Appreciate your help.

Rakozy

[GreenLake]

People with wooden boats report using leaf blowers to dry bilges (more critical if the boat is made from wood). If you keep your boat under covers, keeping the inspection ports open will help air it out