Should I be concerned

[cardoc672]

My 1988 Bayline Capri Cuddy has what looks like the outer white coating rubbed off due running it up on the beach. I assume the sand has worn away the outer coating. There are some minor scratches and dings, but I do not see any fibers. Is there any reason to be concerned about this? The boat does not take on water or anything like that. The reason I ask is because I'm slipping the boat for this season and dont want to cause any hull issues with it sitting in the water all season. Previously I trailered it so it was out of the water after every use.

Thanks

 

[zach103]

Re: Should I be concerned

is there anti fouling bottom paint on there?

 

[danond]

Re: Should I be concerned

Fixing the gelcoat isn't hard. Buy some neutral colored stuff and a bottle of pigment, sand, clean, apply, sand, buff.

 

[cardoc672]

Re: Should I be concerned

First off thanks for reply. I took a closer look at it this morning and it looks like its just the gel coat thats worn away. I have few other little spots doing the same thing. Up where the bow contacts the trailer is worn away too. I'll take care of both issues at the same time..

Thanks

 

[lowkee]

Re: Should I be concerned

If that is the first of the wear, no worries. Just keep in mind, there is only so much keel on your boat and you definitely do not want to rub through it. I have 1990 bayliner cpari and this is what my keel looked like when I removed the deck:

The orange glow is ambient light shining through the keel.

Again, you may have plenty of keel left, but something to file away next time you beach your boat.

 

[rogerwa]

Re: Should I be concerned

On the 87 searay I used to own, I could see light through my storage locker from the beaching. I built it up with Marinetex and put a keelguard over it.. It was fine for the 5 years I owned it..

 

[drewpster]

Re: Should I be concerned

Keel wear is a common issue especially on boats that are beached often. Years ago when I bought my little tri-hull I found that the keel was worn badly. I was able to push a screw driver through the worn area. I had to repair the area with new glass. It is a good idea to keep a close eye on it. Keel guard is a good product and I recommend it on any boat prone to keel wear. I generally do not recommend beaching fiberglass boats but I am guilty of it myself from time to time. If I am going to camp an island, I tie the boat to shore and use a draw anchor to pull the boat to deeper water. Then it is simply a matter of pulling her back to shore when we are ready to leave.
In any case it is better to have the boat floating free. Make sure you learn to tie a secure knot or you may have to go swimming in the morning.

 

[rogerwa]

Re: Should I be concerned

I should have noted that the keel on my boat was strong, the Marintetex was more to cover up the exposed glass and build it up a little. The keelguard was mainly for looks and to protect against the beaching.