How do I fix this in my bilge?

[LadyAnya]

Hello, I need some help trying to figure out how to fix this issue I have in my bilge. It seems like there is water seeping from beneath the bilge through fiberglass. How do I solve the issue? I want to fix it before it gets worse. Here are some picture for reference:

 

[GT1000000]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

You need to check the outside of the hull and see what has caused this and take some pics of the damaged area from the outside...was this caused by a misplaced screw or did something hit the hull and cause a crack?

Whatever the cause and effect, it can probably be repaired, but the how depends on the amount of damage...

 

[jigngrub]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

What is below your bilge? The outer hull or is there space between you bilge and outer hull?

If there is space between your bilge and outer hull, this is bad.

 

[LadyAnya]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

I believe there is space between bilge and outer hull. What needs to be done then?

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

If there's space between then you have water in your hull and that means you have a leak in your hull some where. Water under the deck will rot your stringers and bulkheads etc. You must investigate much more.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

with a space between the bilge and outer hull, I am guessing its water soaked and rotting.

what kind of boat? will need more pics - both outside the hull and inside the hull.

 

[LadyAnya]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

This is without the boat being in the water for over a year. Seems to be more active after it rains. So I need to find an entry point for the water?

 

[LadyAnya]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

It's an 89 sunrunner. I will take some more pictures today. I have been back and forth about keeping or selling this boat. If this job is too big, I am done with it.

 

[jigngrub]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

Storm water (rain, snow, ice) ruins more boats than anything else.

Keeping your boat covered or indoors when not in use will preserve it and it'll last a very long time.

 

[LadyAnya]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

do I need to cut the hole open to see what is going on?

 

[jigngrub]

Re: How do I fix this in my bilge?

You can drill a hole in it and inspect the shavings to see if they're wet or dry. You more than likely have floatation foam under the fiberglass and if it's wet you have problems. If it's dry you can fill the hole up with 3M 5200 sealant.