I had to replace the flotation parts of the pontoons due to an infestation of ants. The flotation was simply 2" while insulation board you'd buy at Lowes or Home Depot. The insulation had really deteriorated into a lot of tiny pieces of white foam. The top of the pontoon you describe is designed to keep all the flotation "stuff" contained and inside the pontoon, allowing flotation even if it's deteriorated into pieces.
I replaced the white foam boards with blue or pink closed cell boards. It took mostly 2" boards, with a 3" board on top. There should be a small bilge pump at the rear of each pontoon, which pumps water into the very front, angled, parts of the pontoons. Those front parts are not sealed and have no flotation boards. I replaced each of the bilge pumps, using clear plastic (and flexible) tubing to route the pumped water to the front.
You must tie your motor to the boat. The "transom" broke on mine & the motor dropped 25 to the end of its rope. I was able to lift it onto the boat and get it serviced so it still works. I highly recommend getting a welder to build you a more substantial "transom"
I had to replace the flotation parts of the pontoons due to an infestation of ants. The flotation was simply 2" while insulation board you'd buy at Lowes or Home Depot. The insulation had really deteriorated into a lot of tiny pieces of white foam. The top of the pontoon you describe is designed to keep all the flotation "stuff" contained and inside the pontoon, allowing flotation even if it's deteriorated into pieces.
I replaced the white foam boards with blue or pink closed cell boards. It took mostly 2" boards, with a 3" board on top. There should be a small bilge pump at the rear of each pontoon, which pumps water into the very front, angled, parts of the pontoons. Those front parts are not sealed and have no flotation boards. I replaced each of the bilge pumps, using clear plastic (and flexible) tubing to route the pumped water to the front.
You must tie your motor to the boat. The "transom" broke on mine & the motor dropped 25 to the end of its rope. I was able to lift it onto the boat and get it serviced so it still works. I highly recommend getting a welder to build you a more substantial "transom"