70's Aluminum Boat leaking at seams

[johzak]

I have a aluminum boat that leaks at some of the seams. What would I use on the outside to fix this problem. I would rather not remove the floor at this time. Thanks....

 

[ztim]

Re: 70's Aluminum Boat leaking at seams

First you need to find out why the seam became loose. Are there any loose or missing rivits? Could you tighten them? Sometimes all you need is an access hole to "buck" the rivit from the inside. Another option is to take it to a welding shop and have an expert weld the aluminum.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 70's Aluminum Boat leaking at seams

how badly is it leaking. iboats store sells a product call Gulvit it is a 2part epoxy designed especially for aluminum boats. it gets high praises. it's pricey, but the coverage is very close to what they state.

 

[johzak]

Re: 70's Aluminum Boat leaking at seams

I was not able to find any loose or missing rivits or bends or holes. It seems like the seam is leaking do to natural aging (if that's possible). I'll check out that epoxy.. That sounds like what I'm looking for...Thanks...

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: 70's Aluminum Boat leaking at seams

Gluvit is best applied from the inside. It is thicker than 90 weight oil when mixed and FLOWS. It will creep into seems. Follow directions on mixing carefully (I used a postal scale) and use two light coats.

 

[1959_FDR]

Re: 70's Aluminum Boat leaking at seams



2 words " Mig Welder " d

 

[cougar1985]

Re: 70's Aluminum Boat leaking at seams

yeh! mig welder. going to weld about 15 rivits tomorrow on my boat ,they wont leak again.easiest way to do as taking out floor is a major job.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: 70's Aluminum Boat leaking at seams

I don't mean to throw a wrench into the machine but?

Is there foam in the belly of the boat?

Is there a fuel tank?

It was just a thought.

 

[ccooper]

Re: 70's Aluminum Boat leaking at seams

I have a 1957 Feathercraft- riveted aluminum hull. It was leaking at the seams- especially toward the bow. After a lot of trial and error, we determined that the aluminum was flexing while we were bouncing around in "roughish" water. I used a wire wheel on a drill and various scrapers and completely cleaned ALL the seams. I then came back and filled the seams with a product called "Life Caulk" made by Boat Life. I liked Life Caulk because I could sand it and paint it when dry, plus it remains flexible and stretchable. It's only been about three months (I use it every weekend on the Long Island Sound)- but it hasn't leaked since..