C-Forum

I'm getting ready to start building a bulkhead saddle for an open canoe. I'm going to order the mini-cell from Sweet's. Which is better to use the L-200 or the M-200. The M-200 is supposed to be a little stiffer. I was hoping someone who had used both would offer some advice if one was any better than the other. Is one more durable or maybe one is easier to cut and shape. Also what's the best method that ya'll have found to get the skin off the outside of the foam.
Thanks
Scott

I only have experience with the L-200. I would e-mail your questions to Davey at Sweet Composites; he may be able to advise you.

John

Scott,

I recently re-outfitted my Skeeter with foam from Sweet composites. Jennifer suggested the L-200. It seems to be plenty stiff enough for my application. A half bun ought to be enough for a full-length saddle and thigh hooks. If it's a wider boat and you're filling in the tumblehome, you may want the full bun.

Using foam that has some give makes sense to me: you could opt for a greater amount of coverage on your thighs and still be able to squeeze your way out in a pinch. Also, the surfaces where your bulkhead system is glued to the hull take a lot of force; I ripped the first installation of my saddle out rolling the boat. If the entire piece of foam flexes a bit more, stress will not be quite as concentrated at the foam/hull junction, and your outfitting should stay in longer. (Use the yellow contact cement. From a technical standpoint, it may be butt ugly, but it's adhesive properties make it the snip-snap-shiznizzle.)

As far as removing the skin, you don't need to kill yourself: if you rough it up, you can glue it, and I don't find the surface too objectionable for exposed foam areas. Just my take on it. If you do want to remove it, I found that an electric sander will make it disppear in short order, but will COAT you and your garage with fine black dust that goes away only with persistent vacuuming

have fun!