rudder shelf replacement

[Capt. Collywood]

I have a '79 Bertram 285. She has some rot on the port rudder shelf where it tabs into the hull (rudder access hatch was missing the drain tube, fixed that). The glass tab is in great shape. Can I grind the underside of the tab and secure a new shelf in place with resin and mesh? What resin should I use? Should I thru-bolt the shelf to the tab also? My area of knowledge is more mechanical, so any honest help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Bondo]

Re: rudder shelf replacement

Ayuh,... Welcome Aboard,....

I moved yer post down here, as it's a better fit...

Have ya got a Picture of the problem area,...
Just guessin', but I think I'd probably go with Epoxy over poly resin, as it's abit stronger...
But,...
Honestly, I don't know how yer rudder shelf fits together...

 

[Capt. Collywood]

Re: rudder shelf replacement

After further inspection, it looks like I should do both sides. Linked is a pic of the stb. side, not as rotten and this will make removal harder because it is still firmly attached to the tab.

http://s469.photobucket.com/albums/rr56/collywood27948/?action=view&current=IMG_7370.jpg

Thanks

 

[zopperman]

Re: rudder shelf replacement

Your boat was made with poly... I would stick with poly... it's also way cheaper...
I'd use 1.5 oz CSM (only use with poly) and a layer of 1708 bi ax.. I wouldn't thru bolt the tabbing... it will be strong enough if you glass properly...
Also, make sure you grind down to fresh glass before you put new stuff on.