fiberglass keel repair- Help!

[bryanproach]

ran aground last summer navigating a channel at night. Need to repair a portion of my keel and am looking for some pointer/recommendations.

The bottom 2" sections seems to be solid epoxy. im wondering the best way to build this area back up and attach it to the original glass.

 

[saltwaterbluefish]

Re: fiberglass keel repair- Help!

Rather difficult to see the pictures, but I would grind back to find some good glass. If you have deep gouges sand out to have a wider circle, so the epoxy will stick better. Put in some epoxy putty to the holes/gouges. Then put on a layer of 1708. Might want to check out West System's website they have some good information on fixing a keel. Also there needs to be something more than just epoxy. Epoxy by itself adds no strength and will crack at nothing.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: fiberglass keel repair- Help!

Welcome to iBoats,
Running aground is NO GOOD! Sorry for your Bad Luck!!
IMHO, You CANNOT fix that damage from the OUTSIDE ONLY! You will need to gain access from the inside as well. ALL of the damaged wood and glass will have to come out and then an assessment made of how to repair the damage. A LOT MORE inspection and investigation needs to be done before ANY repair solutions can be discussed.