how tofind a leakage?

[zippy83]

Hello All,

I have a 95 Lowe 1605 (16') aluminum boat. When I got it two years ago all the way until my last trip last weekend there was never water found inside it. On occasion it was a little wet from the waves splashing etc. However this last time I took it out, and after 10 hours on the water fishing when I pulled it up I found some water in it. It wasn?t enough where the automatic bilge would kick in, and there wasn?t enough water in it for me to drain in by unplugging the drain plug even though I was at an somewhat steep boat ramp. I had to use a small towel to soak it in and then drain the towel 7-8 times. There couldn?t have been more than 20oz of water in it.

Today I checked all the hoses that lead to the live well and the fittings. I found out that the hose clamp that is on the bottom of the hull was a little lose so I replaced it and made sure it was on tight. The Drain plug seems to be in good shape. I will replace it today when I go to the store to make sure it's not it. I also installed a new Transducer and patched some old holes up using stainless steel bolts and washers with 3M 5200. I checked that area and it seems to be in good order. I checked all the rivets under the hull, I did not notice any lose once or any that are in bad shape.

What else can I do? I will be going on a 3 day trip in two days so I want to check everything I can to minimize the water leakage if there is any...

As always all your suggestions are greatly appreciated, and have helped me become a better boater!!!!
Thanks
Zipp

 

[Captain Caveman]

Re: how tofind a leakage?

Go get the Mrs a gift card for a massage. Go through your tackle to make sure that you've got everything. Grease your reels. Make sure that you set out enough food for the cat. Double check the thermostat in the house before you leave.

Oh, and forget about 20oz of water. That's why you've got a bilge pump

 

[Bondo]

Re: how tofind a leakage?

Go get the Mrs a gift card for a massage. Go through your tackle to make sure that you've got everything. Grease your reels. Make sure that you set out enough food for the cat. Double check the thermostat in the house before you leave.

Oh, and forget about 20oz of water. That's why you've got a bilge pump

Ayuh,..... Agreed,.....

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: how tofind a leakage?

If you didn't find a little water you weren't looking hard enough.

You could always fill the boat with water while on the trailer to look for leaks (to be practical, just up to the waterline) but that doesn;t always work due to less pressure than from water on the outside while floating.

 

[gm280]

Re: how tofind a leakage?

What leak?

 

[zippy83]

Re: how tofind a leakage?

I guessits not a leakage untill it sinks

 

[roscoe]

Re: how tofind a leakage?

Not a leak till its over your ankles.

 

[greenbush future]

Re: how tofind a leakage?

If you didn't find a little water you weren't looking hard enough.

You could always fill the boat with water while on the trailer to look for leaks (to be practical, just up to the waterline) but that doesn;t always work due to less pressure than from water on the outside while floating.

Soaking the foam under the sole isn't really a great idea to try to find a leak IMO. I don't really think this guy has a leak based on what he's done already. Now if the boat was gutted, and you were searching for leaks, I agree, add some water and inspect the outside.