Aluminum repair

[reivertom]

Hello,
This is my first post here and I need to get some advise about repairing my old pram. It is a 11 1/2 ft (?) pram that my Dad bought new in 1956 and has been in our family ever since. I even have the original motor, a 1959 Scott-Attwater 3.6. I'm 54 years old and I caught my first bass out of it. anyway, it's in a state of disrepair after sitting behind the house and being moved around and mowed around for the last 15 years. I just noticed that there are several small punctures in one side and I haven't a clue how they happened , but I need to fix them. Also because it was leaning against the house , water ran into one gunwale and froze and split it about a foot. I'm sure I'll find more problems after I inspect it closer. I know I need a new transom. Anyway, what type of welding machine is best to use when fixing thin aluminum? I am not a welder, but I need know when I start looking for a shop to do the deed.


Also, I found a detailed model sheet with many models and specs about duratech boats on a website. It had a chart about each model and stuff like HP ratings and weight limits.....I can't remember where I found it. Is it on this site someplace?

 

[JoeMan]

Re: Aluminum repair

If the punctures are very small, you could fix them with 2 part JB Weld after forming the aluminum back to flat (assuming it's 'dented' where these holes were made). If you plan to have them welded, I've not done this. I've seen some really cool aluminum welding vids on YouTube however.
Not sure which site you saw, but I run the Duratech Boats website at www.duratechboats.com We've got quite a bit of info there, and I can provide the specifics for your boat. You may also have seen it elsewhere, I've seen some Duratech info in other spots, but I'd say we're the main repository. Just provide the exact model and 5 digit serial number from your ID tag, and I can provide specifics for you.