If I can get it in the water for a year or two before a major stringer replacement I would be happy. If I don't work a double shift tomorrow, I am going to try the pilot hole deal and see what the wood looks like. I haven't even started it. It was winterized and cold, so I didn't want to put water in it to start it. He assured me it would run fine. But he also assured me that the floor and stringers were fine. Live and learn I suppose.