please help..the log is still in the hull

[evochick]

I hit the underwater forrest this weekend. <br />3 ft. by 8 inch crack/gash in bottom of boat.<br />Needing advise on repair. The log pushed/cracked the hull a bit up towards floor. Should I repair over it or try to pull it down first. <br /> PLEASE HELP. Any info would be greatly appreciated!

 

[crab bait]

Re: please help..the log is still in the hull

this is way to much to say thru typing..!! i'd pull it back to near normal & way over lap patch it with matting .. major lay-ups on the in & outside.. you can use polyester resin to do all the repair or you can spring for epoxy, if you may... than an final coat of glass cloth.. <br />good luck...

 

[epresutti]

Re: please help..the log is still in the hull

evochick,<br /><br />I am with Crab Bait on this one, the hull should be repaired from the inside, personally I would use epoxy (remember once you use epoxy for the repair you can never use poly over the top of it).<br /><br />Remove all damaged material and make sure the area to be repaired is completely dry, do NOT use ascetone to clean, sand the patch area with minimum of 80grit sandpaper and wipe clean with damp cloth (not wet).<br /><br />The structure should be sound from the inside, I have used cross stitched matt for these types of repairs (this is woven glass with a 3/4oz backing), it is a little tough to wet out, but very strong. If you can't get to the crack/hole from the inside, you may have to cut out a piece of the deck. The outside can then be patched and fared (sp?).<br /><br />Hope this helps.<br /><br />Safe boating to all.<br /><br />Cheers.<br /><br />emp.

 

[evochick]

Re: please help..the log is still in the hull

The hole didnt go thru the floor of the boat and after taking the limb out...it looks crunched but not gaping. I bought some polyester resin but from what I am seeing epoxy may be the way to go.<br />Any thoughts? Thanks for the responses!

 

[crab bait]

Re: please help..the log is still in the hull

it's very rare if ever i would reccomend polyester.. but in this case,, you'll be layin'-up many layers.. i think poly would be the way to go.. an it's what the boat already is... but epoxy would be great ,too...

 

[flashback]

Re: please help..the log is still in the hull

where in the hull is the hole? did it damage any other structure such as stringers etc. what kind of boat is it. need just a little more help.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: please help..the log is still in the hull

If it is a gash you need to terminate the gash....confused yet? You have to determine both ends of the split and drill a small hole at each end. That will stop the gash from spreading or getting longer while under stress.<br /><br />Bob