Table of Contents
Advertisement
5.4.1
FIBERGLASS TOUGH-UP AND REP AIRS:
Scratches, Shallow Nicks, Gouges, Small Holes
(That do not penetrate through the hull)
These repairs are easy because only the surface of the boat is damaged. They fall
into two categories: (1) damage to the gel coat colored outer surface, and (2) holes
or gouges that are deep enough to penetrate the fiberglass reinforced area of the
boat. The repair operations are similar.
For damage to the gel coat surface, you will need a small can of gel coat, of the
same color as your boat, and a small amount of catalyst. For deeper holes or
gouges (118" or more) you will also need some short strands of fiberglass which can
be trimmed from fiberglass mat or purchased in the form of"milled fibers." These
materials can be purchased from your dealer.
(1)
Be sure the area around the damage is wiped clean and dry. Remove any wax
or oil from the inside of the hole or scratch.
(2)
Using a power drill with a burr attachment, roughen the bottom and sides of
the damaged area and feather the edge surrounding the scratch or gouge. Do
not "undercut" this edge. (If the scratch or hole is shallow and penetrates only
the color gel coat, skip to step No. 8)
(3)
Into a jar lid or on a piece of cardboard, pour a small amount of gel coat ...
just enough to fill the area being worked on. Mix an equal amount of milled
fibers with this gel coat, using a putty knife or small flat stick. Then add two
drops of catalyst, using an eyedropper for accurate measurement. For a half-
dollar-size pile of gel coat, this amount of catalyst will give you 15 to 20
minutes working time before it begins to "gel." Carefully cut the catalyst into
the gel coat and mix thoroughly.
( 4)
Work this mixture of gel coat, fibers, and catalyst into the damaged area,
using the sharp point of a putty knife or knife blade to press it into the bottom
of the hole and to puncture any air bubbles that may occur. Fill the scratch or
hole above the surrounding undamaged area about 1116".
(5)
Lay a piece of cellophane or waxed paper over the repair to cut off the air and
start the "cure."
( 6)
After 10 to 15 minutes the patch will be partially cured. When
it feels rubbery
to the touch, remove the cellophane and trim flush with the surface, using a
sharp razor blade or knife. Replace the cellophane and allow it to cure
completely (30 minutes to an hour). The patch will shrink slightly below the
surface as it cures.
42
Hide quick links:
Advertisement
Table of Contents
