I have one main concern about getting a Lund vs. Lowe. I am leaning toward the more expensive Lund Rebel XLSS over the Lowe FM 165S, but I found that the sides of the Lund are very thin aluminum. It is .063 in. vs. .100 for the Lowe. While I am sure the Lund is extremely well built, I am wondering how well it will hold up being tied to a dock. Although I will use mooring whips and have tires on the dock, big waves (from boats) can still cause the boat to hit. Has anyone else thought about this, or am I being way to cautious.

Thanks, Andy

When does the side of the boat take that hard of a blow that it would damage it... Lund puts Thick aluminum where it is needed and where stress is the greatest... Petting thicker aluminum on the side is just adding extra weight and lowering the performance of the boat... Go with the lund but in all fairness i am slightly biased for obvious reasons:howdy: Teamlund out

I think you should be looking at more construction issues than aluminum thickness. Specifically how the two boats are riveted, strakes, and splash rails. Number of stringers is important too but not easily seen. So count the total number of floor rivets and screws. Then look at other quality issues like hatches, carpet, seats, consol, ect.

Thicker aluminum does not make up for a combination of other weaknesses. But it sure looks good on paper and sounds good coming out of a salesmans mouth.

Buy the lund!!!

At one time Lowes were built with alum. floors and transoms.I'm not sure if they still are.If they are I'd have to take that into consideration.