4 rivers 13' 6 ' runners

[Eric Esper]

I just got a 13" 6" 4 rivers marsh layout and I think its going to be perfect for most of my hunting. My one concern is the 2 runners on the bottom. they are formed as part of the boat and given what I've seen so far I'm more than a little concerned about their durability. Does any one have any input on a process by which I might add wood or metal strips as protection? I'm not concerned about adding weight. I've made one trip out with it and moved it around the garage and driveway and some fibers are peeking through. Input appreciated

 

[Mark W]

Hey Eric -

I have had a Hoefgen Duck boat for many years and have dragged that sucker through and over just about everything. It has one runner the length of the boat right smack dab in the middle. It has experienced wear but no wear through or anything.

One thing that may work great, and something I've considered, are the products such as Keel Shield. This may work well for your intended purposes.

Mark W

 

[Wispete]

Eric, Fleet Farm has snowmobile slides that would work on the runners of your boat. They are relatively inexpensive and are predrilled for installation I hope the link shows up.

 

[Mark(mo)]

I wore through both of the runners on my 4 Rivers dragging the boat over levees and such. Mine was built several years ago and they used wood 1" half round molding. Needless to say the wood rotted and I had to dig out what I could and fill with new glass and putty. I think they have switch to something non-organic but a little glass on them every other year or when they start to look worn and you should be fine.

 

[Carl]

I have the 4Rivers 9'6" model and dinged my runners up pretty good on clam shells and a frozen mud flat (yes, it did actually freeze in Mobile a couple of years back!).
I was actually pretty surprised how easily it happened, thought they should hold up a lot better than it did.
I put some 2 part epoxy on the dings, it's held up OK. I am sure there are better solutions out there.