Help-Your experiences/suggestions welding bow or chine on Chieftains

[59Thompson]

Found a "deal" on CL in Ohio for an older 18' Chieftain OB, Shoreline trailer and 105 Chrysler (no title on the motor so no good to me) owner says bow metal has a crack and one chine edge is cracked. He bought it as a project and thinks bondo is the way to go. I know its not, but before I drive over to look at it, I'm wondering if you tinmasters have had any lasting success with welding on bow plates or chine edges and if so what techniques and welding equipment and rods or wire should be used. Thanks for any help you can provide.

 

[jasoutside]

Re: Help-Your experiences/suggestions welding bow or chine on Chieftains

Welding alum is tricky and (in my opinion) should be left to legitimate pros. The welded material can sometimes end up getting brittle and crack right back on ya.

Alum "patches" trowled with 5200 and riveted in place is in many cases a great solution.