Aluminum Boat Leaking

[111torrance111]

Hi Guy's,

I just bought an aluminum welded boat that seems to leak on the seems. I thought weld boats didn't leak... But now I have and need to fix it.

Is it better to seal and paint the bottom half or actully try to have it welded. I plan on leaving in the water for about 3 months.

if welding is required is there an @ home version or it this best left tot he perfessionals?

Please help.

Jerry

 

[iwombat]

Re: Aluminum Boat Leaking

If it needs re-welded it's potentially a structural concern and I'd leave that to the pros. What makes you think it's leaking at the seams?

 

[111torrance111]

Re: Aluminum Boat Leaking

If it needs re-welded it's potentially a structural concern and I'd leave that to the pros. What makes you think it's leaking at the seams?

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Aluminum Boat Leaking

Leave the welding to a pro. In a flash you could be looking at some HUGE ugly holes if you have not welded aluminum sheets. Are the welds or seams cracked? Worn thin? If it is just a few minor "non-structural" areas you should use Gluvit. That will seal it up and it is the right stuff for the job.

If you do have it welded and it still might have a few pinholes..... again use Gluvit.

 

[iwombat]

Re: Aluminum Boat Leaking

To check it out properly and give the welder some clues, fill the hull with water and mark any leaks with some orange marking paint. The paint will make a nice halo around the leaks.

 

[111torrance111]

Re: Aluminum Boat Leaking

Thanks for the advise, I'll check to see if it's structural or not. It has a lot of silicone that needs to be removed befor I can tell.

I'll give more detail when I have it cleaned up.

Thanks

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Aluminum Boat Leaking

Get rid of the silicone!!! Scrape, sand and use heavy duty green pads.