1990 Champion outer skin replacement

[threeboysgolf]

I recently purchased a project boat with the transom outer skin removed and the wood cleaned out of the transom cavity. The seller gave me the Arjay 6011 pourable transom compound with the boat. The outer skin was cut 4 inches in from the sides and bottom. I have the old skin which is in great shape. My question is what specific type of fiberglass should I use with epoxy to mate the 12:1 beveled joints and ensure a strong joint (mat, cloth or biaxial cloth with or without mat)? Also, any response from users of the Arjay product would be appreciated. I'm a little unsure about this product........

 

[ondarvr]

Re: 1990 Champion outer skin replacement

Use some 17oz biax or possibly 10oz cloth (Biax is stronger) with epoxy, the number of layers isn't that critical.

Since you're using epoxy, when you build it back up to be level with the existing surface the epoxy portion will be stronger than what was there before.

Some people put a single layer glass over the entire outside surface of the transom to make themselves feel better.

 

[CarTuner]

Re: 1990 Champion outer skin replacement

I'm assuming the outer skin will be reattached using epoxy/glass first, then the Arjay filler will be poured. Since polyester resin (which is what the Arjay 6011 is made from) does not stick to epoxy, won't there be a weak, poorly bonded area between the Arjay and the epoxy seam? Would it be better to first attach the outer skin using poly resin and glass, and then go over it with the epoxy/glass combo? I realize that this surface area is pretty small, and it may not cause any issues, but thought I'd mention it.

Regarding using the Arjay 6011, I just used it (along with Nidabond PTC, which is the same stuff) to redo my stringers. The material is great. The stringers are now super stiff and solid and will never rot on me again. The Arjay / Nibabond takes a screw well too and doesn't break apart.

 

[threeboysgolf]

Re: 1990 Champion outer skin replacement

I'm glad you asked about the seams. I plan on laying a couple of layers of poly and mat on the inner seams. Will use 1708 and epoxy as suggested on the outer seams for strength. Should the 1708 be cloth or cloth w/mat? A friend gave me some 1708 cloth w/mat but it seems really thick. Can anyone be more specific on what to use on the outer skin? Thanks for the info on the Arjay. I feel better about usint the pourable transom compound.

 

[ondarvr]

Re: 1990 Champion outer skin replacement

No mat with epoxy, its not needed.

I'm not sure how you'll be able to laminate the inner side of the skin, it will only be about a 2.5 inch gap to reach down into.

There will only be a small gap along cut line where the poly would be in contact with the epoxy, so it won't make a difference strength wise.

 

[threeboysgolf]

Re: 1990 Champion outer skin replacement

So, don't use the 1708 w/mat, just 1708 cloth. When filling in the outer joints, should I first lay up a 6" wide strip, then reduce the width till I get the proper build up. Lay up will probably require 4 to 5 layers! Thanks for the advise.......

 

[ondarvr]

Re: 1990 Champion outer skin replacement

You want to look for 17 oz glass, the "08" in 1708 is the mat portion, that's why you just want 17 oz, or something close.

Most people start with a small piece and then use large pieces as needed, but it really isn't that critical, so do what works for you.