Checking for leaks in aluminum boats.

[xxlurchxx]

I redid a Bass Tracker Pro 16 V but after I finished the entire project I realised I never checked it for leaks. THe hull looks solid and I did not find any obvious dent or dings that would suggest a problem. Is there any way to test short of tearing the deck back off and adding water? Can I coat the bottom with something to seal it? What do you guys recommend?

 

[Bondo]

Re: Checking for leaks in aluminum boats.

Ayuh,... If there's No problem, Why worry about it,..??

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Checking for leaks in aluminum boats.

I really do not recommend filling water into the hull at all.

Yes, gluvit actually is used as a barrier coating on the bottom of the hull to resist abrasion on many boats that are run in river's. Google gluvit and read up on it. If you really do not need it save the $55+ for some other nice thing.

A visual inspection works good on "most" aluminum hulls. I have seen starcrafts in the past hold water fine from the inside however, at speed the pressure of the water seeped through uncoated seams....but only at high speed.....while floating the hulls were fine.

If by chance you find a questionable rivet..... go the cheap way and smear a touch of 3m 5200 on it and go boating.