Crack along keel

[redneckn]

1989 Sunbird 173 First time off trailer since rebuild and hit trailer i guess.Crack is about 14 inches and water entered hull.Thank god for bilge pumps. Thought thru hull fitting was leaking. Anyway water has gotten between layers of fiberglass. Ground off all loose fiberglass and am letting dry thoroughly. Repair suggestions? Planning on layering resin and mat and then using marine bondo.Would this do?

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Crack along keel

I don't see why that would not work, and if this crack is right on the keel, I would opt for a keel guard also after repairs.<br /><br />It is a good idea to protect the keel in case of running upon banks or whatever.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Crack along keel

Marine Tex is the absolute best for small cracks. Resin & mat is the way to go for the larger ones.

 

[MrBill]

Re: Crack along keel

I agree with SoLittle...dig out all loose material and fill crack with Marine Tex and sand flush with hull. I would then glass over with cloth and epoxy resin four inches on either side and probably 6 to 8 inches afront and back of crack, then paint over. This seemss like it's bordering on the need to provide structural integrity so good preparation and attention to a strong patch is important. Keel guards are excellent for taking the wear that sand, gravel and other minor obstructions put on a hull, but will not provide structural strength. Unless you beach the boat frequently, I wouldn't put the keel guard on just yet, so you can keep an eye on your repair, albeit with a diving mask.

 

[crab bait]

Re: Crack along keel

i agree with everone.. even SBN..he's rite.. 'it should work'.. but marine-tex & epoxy with glass is the best.. <br /><br />cracks are funny.. they have away to 'crack' again..<br /><br />open up the crack.. with a drill & thin abrasive wheel.. i know,,, it's hard to have a mindset to 'make the crack worst'.. but believe me,, it must be done .. <br /><br />the reason for this maddness is the marine-tex has more surface area an more fill power..<br /><br />otherwise your just applyin' a 'topical' to the crack.. <br /><br />also,, VERY IMPORTAINT...bore a 3/8 hole at both ends of crack.. this keeps it from splittin' farther...

 

[MrBill]

Re: Crack along keel

crab bait...excellent thought for halting split!!

 

[redneckn]

Re: Crack along keel

Thanks guys for the info! Drilled the crack when i ground it down.Still itchin' from the sandin'. Still wet so i'm gonna let it dry until next weekend.Pulled all the deck plates and have the boat in the carport with a fan going. Thanks again.