Aluminum Hull Filler?

DufferJim

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jul 9, 2007
Messages
49
We pulled the '77 mirrocraft (14' aluminum deep V) off the trailer for the first time today. We flipped it over for primer/paint prep, only to find that the last owner had apparently replaced the trailer bunks with something of his own creation. Amazingly enough that creation had stainless bolts sticking nearly 1/2 inch above the carpeted area of the "bunks" and had mangled the hull with deep gouges, though no actual holes. Luckily we had already ordered a set of roller bunks and adjustable brackets to hopefully better protect the fresh paint.

Has anyone on here used Dura-Fix or anything similar for a "body filler" effect (like lead was used on old street rods for custom work or current bondo work), or is that stuff strictly for hole repair? Or is it any good at all? Our first time working with aluminum. Thanks.
 

firehog6305

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jun 30, 2007
Messages
283
Re: Aluminum Hull Filler?

you know I have had alum boats all my life, and never had to patch them, except for screw hole's, for that I just picked some stuff up at the local walmart that even patches holes under water, it held for years, but the only problem I see with that, is I'm not sure its sandable, sorry I couldnt be more help, but I'm sure one of the briany seamen on here will
 

Bob_VT

Moderator & Unofficial iBoats Historian
Staff member
Joined
May 19, 2001
Messages
26,064
Re: Aluminum Hull Filler?

Are they holes? You can use an epoxy to fill in the gouges .... sand and repaint or have them filled with aluminum weld.
 

Nova II 260

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 27, 2006
Messages
681
Re: Aluminum Hull Filler?

If you have access (inside) to the damage, you could try using a Body Mammer and Dolly and see if you can hammer them out. Hint, don't be the inside man...: {;)
 

DufferJim

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jul 9, 2007
Messages
49
Re: Aluminum Hull Filler?

Thanks for all the advice :)

They aren't holes, just gouges where the bolts dug furrows and removed material. It's pretty thin there, that's why I'm wondering if I can use aluminum braze like Dura-Fix to fill in the extra material rather than epoxy. Can't afford to pay someone to lay weld in there.

Nova I did pound some of it out already (and was stuck on the inside), but the worst is under a riveted aluminum cross rib, so it has to be filled somehow.

I think I'm going to go ahead and try the braze. I'll post the results.
 
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