How to build a fiberglass gutter?

[saltwaters]

I have a 1982 28 ft Topaz. There are two hatches in the deck that provide access to the rudders and shafts and struts. The hatch lids sit on a flat piece of fiberglass. There is no built in gutter so any water that seems through the seem goes into the bilge. I want to build a gutter for the hatches.

One option is to build it L-shaped and fit the inside edge of the hatch opening. Add a couple of fittings and drain tube and the water goes to the outside of the boat.

What is the best way to build the mould? I have heard of such a thing as moulding epoxy. Is this the right terminology?

I'd appreciate any and all advice.

Thanks

Bill

 

[Chris1956]

Re: How to build a fiberglass gutter?

Salt, The easiest way would be to use some 1/2' plywood strips and 1/2 round wood moulding to create the proper shape. Now glue and clamp it in the correct place under the hatches. Now lay some glass and resin over the wood. When it is dry, drill a hole for the drain, and add the thru-hull fittings and drain hose.

 

[Bondo]

Re: How to build a fiberglass gutter?

You could do the Same as Chris says with Cardboard, or 1/4" Plywood too......

Years ago,... I watched a guy build a Car Body out of Poly resin,+ Fiberglass, lain on a Cardboard,+ Masking Tape form....
The corrugations in the Cardboard actually provides alittle bit of Structure to the whole thing....
After he Glassed it Inside,+ Out.......

All you're trying to do is Form the Epoxy,+ Glass structure,........
No reason for the Thickness to be Soo Great....

 

[DJ]

Re: How to build a fiberglass gutter?

Good advice.

The trouble with fiberglass mat/resin is that 90 degree angles are difficult.

As mentioned, whenever possible, use rounded surfaces. They are much easier to deal with.

 

[andy6374]

Re: How to build a fiberglass gutter?

you could also buy some watertight deck hatches, which may or may not include some modication of the hatch cutout.

 

[DJ]

Re: How to build a fiberglass gutter?

Good point about buying-pre made.

See below link.

http://www.iboats.com/mall/?cart_id...egory=f&current_category=manuals&category_id=