Basic fiberglass repair

[FREDDYPD]

I have a couple of compartments like this one that need some repair. Some are a little worse where the mounting holes are completely broken off. I don't need it to look perfect, just function well. Any suggestions on how to do this? I never did any fiberglass repairs.

 

[KnottyBuoyz]

Re: Basic fiberglass repair

It's not a cosmetic repair so it should be pretty easy. There are thickend epoxies that are designed for this type of repair. Interlux makes one, I'm sure there are others.

You should grind down the area to be repaired to get to the underlying fiberglass. Roughen this up with a 60 grit sandpaper, wipe it down with acetone and apply the epoxy. You can use an old playing card (waxed paper type) taped into place to hold the epoxy till it cures. Make it nice and thick. If the repair area is large you might want to add some fiberglass cloth to reinforce it.

Once it's cured you should pre-drill your holes all the way through and use bolts instead of screws. Put large washers on the backside (as large as you can get in there) or make a backing plate from some thin aluminum stock. This helps spread the load over a larger area.

 

[FREDDYPD]

Re: Basic fiberglass repair

Thanks. Where should I buy this epoxy? Auto parts, boat parts or somewhere else?

 

[KnottyBuoyz]

Re: Basic fiberglass repair

Thanks. Where should I buy this epoxy? Auto parts, boat parts or somewhere else?

For that repair I'd look for epoxy based product. Automotive body filler and resins are usually polyester based. Epoxy will give you the best secondary bond to the old glass. Your best bet would be a boating store.

This is the product I've used with pretty good success....

http://www.iboats.com/Interlux_Inte...0814845--**********.459450985--view_id.350721

 

[Coors]

Re: Basic fiberglass repair

Google MAS epoxy, it don't care if it's below waterline.

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Basic fiberglass repair

You need so little epoxy for that repair you can just down to the local hardware store and get small two part kit in a syringe. Get the no sag style if they have it and use a small amount of fiberglass with the epoxy to make is stronger. Build up the backside a little thicker so it doesn't break again.

 

[FREDDYPD]

Re: Basic fiberglass repair

Thanks again guys. I also have a few spots where screws are loose. They are usually in places such as aluminum trim plates and such. Could I just shoot some epoxy in those holes and then put screw back in after it dries?

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Basic fiberglass repair

Yes