If you’re looking to expand the size and capabilities of your jon boat, then you have come to the right place.
Widening a jon boat is a great way to increase the space and stability of your vessel, making it more suitable for fishing, cruising, or whatever your needs may be.
In this article, we will provide an in-depth step-by-step guide to widening a jon boat.
We will cover why widening a jon boat is useful, how to prepare for the job, how to measure and cut the new sides, how to seal the seams, how to attach the new sides to the hull, and how to repaint the boat.
By the end of this guide, you will have a better understanding of how to widen a jon boat and be ready to start your project.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
There are a few ways to widen a jon boat.
The most common and cost effective method is to add an additional panel of aluminum or fiberglass to the sides of the boat.
This will require cutting the existing panels and riveting or welding the new ones in place.
Additionally, you can add sponsons, which are air-filled pontoons that attach to the sides of the boat, to increase the beam and stability.
Finally, you can use a jacking system to lift the boat and add additional framing and planking underneath to widen the boat.
Why Widen a Jon Boat?
Widening a jon boat is an excellent way to improve its performance and make it easier to move around on the water.
It can also increase the capacity of the boat, making it ideal for fishing trips with friends or family.
Additionally, widening a jon boat can add to its aesthetic appeal by creating a larger, more attractive boat.
There are also safety benefits to widening a jon boat, such as improving its stability and reducing the risk of capsizing.
Finally, widening a jon boat can help to extend its lifespan, as the boat will be better protected from the elements.
All of these benefits make widening a jon boat a worthwhile investment for any boat owner.
Preparing to Remove the Existing Sides
Before starting the process of widening a jon boat, it is important to be prepared and understand the steps involved.
Start by gathering the necessary materials and tools needed for the job.
This includes a jigsaw, saw, drill, screws, sealant, and a polyurethane foam replacement kit.
It is also important to make sure the boat is securely moored to a dock or pier while the widening process is taking place.
Next, you should remove any items or accessories attached to the sides of the boat, such as seats, oars, trolling motors, or fuel tanks.
Once these items have been removed, the next step is to inspect the existing sides of the boat.
Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or holes, and make sure the material is in good condition before continuing.
Once the boat is prepped, it is time to start removing the existing sides.
Carefully cut along the edges of the side panels with a jigsaw and remove them from the boat.
Be sure to save the material that has been removed, as it can be used as a template for cutting the new sides.
After the sides have been removed, inspect the hull to make sure there are no signs of damage or wear.
Removing the Existing Sides
Removing the existing sides of a jon boat is the first step in the widening process.
This requires a careful approach to ensure that the boats structural integrity is maintained.
First, the boat needs to be supported properly with sturdy blocks or stands.
This will prevent it from shifting when the sides are removed.
Next, any existing nails or screws should be carefully removed.
It is also important to take note of any existing frames or supports attached to the sides of the boat.
These should be left intact and will need to be reattached when the new sides are in place.
Once the nails and screws have been removed, it is time to carefully pry off the existing sides.
This should be done carefully to avoid damaging the hull, and any leftover nails or screws should be removed.
With the existing sides removed, the boat is now ready to be widened.
Measuring and Cutting the New Sides
When widening a jon boat, it is important to measure and cut the new sides properly.
The most important thing to consider is the size of the new sides in relation to the existing hull.
The new sides should be long enough to extend beyond the original sides, but not too long that they overhang the edge of the hull.
Additionally, the sides should be wide enough to provide ample room for passengers and gear.
When measuring for the new sides, it is best to use a measuring tape to ensure accurate measurements.
Additionally, it is important to measure from the inside of the hull to ensure that the sides will fit properly.
Once the measurements have been taken, the new sides can be cut.
It is best to use a saw or jigsaw for this task, as these tools will provide a clean, precise cut.
It is also important to use the proper safety equipment when using saws and jigsaws, such as safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask.
Once the new sides have been cut to size, it is important to check that they fit properly against the existing hull.
The new sides should fit snugly, but not too tight that they become difficult to attach.
If the sides are too tight, they can be adjusted by sanding or filing to ensure a proper fit.
Additionally, it is important to check that the sides are level and straight before attaching them to the hull.
Sealing the Seams of the New Sides
Once the new sides of the jon boat have been cut to size and attached to the hull, the next step is to seal the seams.
Sealing the seams is an important part of the process, as it prevents water from seeping inside the boat and compromising its structural integrity.
The best type of sealant to use for this purpose is marine-grade caulk, which is specifically designed for use in boats and will provide a more long-lasting seal than regular caulk.
Before applying the sealant, the seams should be wiped clean with a damp cloth to ensure that they are free of dirt and debris.
Once the surface is clean and dry, the sealant can be applied.
For best results, the sealant should be applied in a continuous bead along the seams and allowed to dry completely before the boat is repainted.
It is important to ensure that the sealant is applied correctly, as any gaps or breaks in the seal can allow water to enter the boat.
After the sealant has been applied, it is a good idea to check the seams periodically to make sure that they remain sealed.
Sealing the seams of the jon boat is an important step in the process of widening it.
Using the correct sealant and applying it carefully will help to ensure the boat’s structural integrity and keep it safe from water damage.
Attaching the New Sides to the Hull
Attaching the new sides to the hull is an important step in the process of widening a jon boat.
It is important to choose the right materials and techniques to ensure a secure and lasting attachment.
First, the edges of the new sides should be sanded down and made smooth to ensure a good bond when attaching them to the hull.
Once this is done, the sides should be pre-drilled with holes and then secured with screws and/or rivets.
If rivets are used, they should be countersunk into the hull to ensure a snug fit.
It is also important to use the correct sealant to ensure that the seams between the sides and hull are waterproof.
Once the sides are securely attached to the hull, they should be tested for strength and stability before repainting the entire boat.
Attaching the new sides to the hull is a crucial step in the process of widening a jon boat, and it should be done with care and precision.
Repainting the Boat
Once the new sides are in place, the last step in widening a jon boat is to repaint it. Repainting the boat is important for two main reasons: it helps protect the boat from the elements, and it gives it a fresh, new look. Before beginning the painting process, the boat should be thoroughly cleaned and all seams should be sealed. When selecting a paint, it is important to choose a product that is designed specifically for boat surfaces and is suitable for the type of water the boat will be operating on (saltwater or freshwater).
Before painting, the boat should be lightly sanded to ensure that the paint adheres properly.
To begin the painting process, a primer should be applied to the entire boat.
Once the primer has dried, the boat should be painted with two to three coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
For best results, a brush should be used to apply the paint, and the coats should be applied in a criss-cross pattern.
Finally, after the paint has dried, a sealant should be applied to the entire boat to protect it from the elements and keep it looking like new.
Repainting a jon boat is an important step in the widening process, and it should be done with careful attention to detail.
Doing so will not only give the boat a fresh look, but it will also help protect it from the elements and ensure that it remains in good condition for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Widening a jon boat is a great way to increase its capacity and make it easier to move around on the water.
With the right materials, techniques, and attention to detail, it is possible to widen a jon boat to the desired size.
Now that you know the steps to widen a jon boat, why not give it a try? With the right preparation and care, you can easily create a widened jon boat that is sure to make your time on the water more enjoyable.