Hi Jeff, that's amazing you sailed Stingrays too.

I'm disappointed to hear that the rear beam shouldn't have the curve that it does. I wonder if it would affect anything? Theoretically it would bring the hulls slightly closer together in the rear, but it's probably barely measurable. At least now it is something I could make myself from (non bowed) aluminum tube.

I wondered if the holes were to lighten the beam - but unlikely given that much aluminum couldn't possibly weigh more than an ounce or three. You may be right that they are for the traveler. I'll take a closer look.

I am also wondering if I can make a new dolphin striker strap by ordering that dimension in aluminum or even stainless from this place and carefully bending it myself. It seems like a pretty simple hunk of metal. The strap I Have would also be a pretty good/cheap candidate for welding strengthening layer at the centre hole and a few inches up each side.

Money money money! I know I got a great free boat, but my budget is extremely tight, and I need to be as creative as I can be while fixing it properly. I don't have plans to race the boat, so I have some flexibility with all this.

Thanks again Jeff for your input, much appreciated!