97 Sunbird Spirit 150 Hull Repair

[Rob406]

Hey guys, two part question. I have a 97 Sunbird Spirit 150 bowrider, fiberglass hull.

First, my steering linkage at full turn hits the hull and has worn a depression into the fiberglass. Pretty significant but not worn thru. I want to repair and then cover with a stainless guard. What is the best way to do this? Area is approx 1” x 2” depression.

Secondly, I would like some extra hardware alongside the hull to tie fenders to. Can i simply screw directly into the hull or is there something I am missing here?

 

[todhunter]

Not sure on the first question, though I'd probably want to check and make sure steering isn't out of adjustment before adding a guard.

For the second question, if all you're going to do is tie fenders...sure. But you know if you put a cleat there, it'll eventually get used for tying up the boat. In that case, best practice would be to put a backer of some kind (plywood w/fiberglass or aluminum plate) to distribute the load the cleat will put on the hull.

 

[Rob406]

Not sure on the first question, though I'd probably want to check and make sure steering isn't out of adjustment before adding a guard.

For the second question, if all you're going to do is tie fenders...sure. But you know if you put a cleat there, it'll eventually get used for tying up the boat. In that case, best practice would be to put a backer of some kind (plywood w/fiberglass or aluminum plate) to distribute the load the cleat will put on the hull.

Thanks Todhunter. The hull is enclosed so I have no way of getting in there for a backer. I guess I will keep my eyes open and see what other suggestions arise