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FIBERGLASS AND HULL INFORMATION
M - 1
HULL DESIGN INFORMATION
Four Winns boats are designed using the sound engi-
neering and mathematical principles of hydrostatics,
hydrodynamics, structure, and strength of materials. The
materials utilized provide optimum strength at the light-
est possible weight. The exact fiberglass laminate sched-
ule and construction techniques of each part is deter-
mined in accordance with the strength and rigidity re-
quired.
On the new Vista models, Four Winns has applied for a
patent on its Stable-Vee hull design. This design is now
being extended to all Four Winns boat models. Pods on
either side of the outdrive extend the running surface
beyond the transom. These pods, plus the unique distri-
bution of deadrise from transom to bow, allows Four
Winns to place more hull in the water than deep-vee
designs of similar length and beam. This results in bet-
ter boat handling whether on plane, during turns, or at
rest.
M - 2
FIBERGLASS CONSTRUCTION
The fiberglass components of Four Winns boats are of
the finest quality materials, workmanship and construc-
tion techniques available. This ensures the structural
integrity to provide years of boating enjoyment with mini-
mal maintenance.
The construction of a Four Winns hull begins with the
application of gel coat to the mold. The gel coat is ap-
proximately 20 mils thick. A coat of resin and chopped
fiberglass is then sprayed into the hull and carefully hand
rolled until it is securely affixed to the gel coat.
A number of fiberglass layers and woven roving are ap-
plied to the above laminate. Each layer is hand laid and
hand rolled. The keel and chine areas have fiberglass
woven roving overlapped in these areas to provide addi-
tional strength. Some models utilize encapsulated
end-grain balsa core or coremat laminates to achieve
additional rigidity. Others utilize additional laminations of
woven roving to maintain strength and rigidity.
Vista Owners Manual
10/93
The hull support stringers are located using special tools,
and are fiberglassed into place. This ensures a strong,
rigid hull, permanently formed into a solid assembly, free
of distortions.
Fiberglass cockpit liners, seat bases, v-berths, and bow
pulpits are constructed similar to the hull. Balsa core or
coremat laminations are utilized when necessary.
In addition to a thorough visual inspection of each fiber-
glass component, samples are measured using special
equipment, for fiberglass reinforcement to resin ratio,
laminate configuration, weight and thickness. By these
procedures Four Winns ensures proper composition.
M - 3
EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION
Many boats are used for specific purposes or under con-
ditions which require the addition of special equipment
to the hull, deck or cabin areas. Special care must be
taken during the installation of any equipment to a fiber-
glass component. A polysulfide or butyl based sealant
should be used to seal installations below the water line.
Silicone "marine" seal or similar bedding compound
should be used elsewhere.
NOTICE
DO NOT install any item onto or through the
hull without adequately sealing the hull area
penetrated by the installed item or related fas-
teners. Improper installations could cause leak-
age or allow water absorption and thus cause
serious hull damage.
Always pre-drill fastening holes with a proper
size bit. Pre-drilling will help prevent the fiber-
glass from splintering and thus causing unsightly
damage. Also, counter sink holes to prevent
the gel coat from chipping.
Any equipment which will be subjected to cyclic loading
or significant force should be through- bolted to a fiber-
glass component. A butt block or backing plate should
be used to strengthen any area onto which an item will
be mounted.
Section M
Page 1
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