Aluminum boat repair

[RyBisp]

I am re-newing my 16 ft Lowe aluminum boat, I have stripped it down to the bare aluminum and I am about to cover it with gluv-it. It had a live well at one time and there is a hole where it used to be. I was wondering if there is anyway to repair the hole without any welding? Any other input on this rstoration would be greatly appreciated!! Thanx in advance!

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Aluminum boat repair

welding a hole hull is very hard, as the aluminum is so thin. you could always use a double plate one inside one outside, lots of sealer, and solid rivets.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: Aluminum boat repair

How large is the hole, and where is it located, exactly? Is it near any rivets? Is it below the waterline?<br /><br />All of these things should influence how you make the repair, in my opinion. Do you have a photo of the hole?

 

[RyBisp]

Re: Aluminum boat repair

The hole is near the center of the hull, center of the boat straight down on the floor. It is a little bit larger than a quater. It is not close to any rivets, approx. 3 inches or so from a rib that runs along the outside hull of the boat. Thank you again for your addvice.<br /><br />Ryan

 

[fastwater]

Re: Aluminum boat repair

I had pin holes up to 1/8 inch, and repaired them sucessfully with low temperature welding rods that you use with a torch,but a hole that big will have to be either have a small aluminum plate welded over hole, or easiest is to rivet a small piece of aluminum over hole and place sealant on piece of aluminum before riveting.

 

[DJ]

Re: Aluminum boat repair

Put a patch on the inside. You can then "fare out" the edges on the outside with Gluv It.<br /><br />Gluv It also works better from the inside, for large areas.

 

[ztim]

Re: Aluminum boat repair

How about making a plug that will fit into the hole. Then make an inside doubler to overlap the plug and the hull. Seal and solid rivet.