Is a non-weld repair of pontoon hole and dent possible?

[HotTommy]

The OP's initial post stated that he lives in Italy where a mobile aluminum welder is not available. He also does not have a trailer. .... I agree with those who think welding is the way to go. Heck, I'd consider replacing the entire log if possible. But the OP says he has no trailer and no way to get it welded. Patching it as I described earlier is an option, bit it is not without serious risk. The OP will have to weigh the risk of sinking against the cost of paying to have the boat transported and repaired properly. It's his call.

 

[Tnstratofam]

Why will a riveted patch not work? Obviously welding would be better, but if a welder isn't available why can't you patch it? I wouldn't think twice about patching a small hole in my Starcraft as mentioned above.

I'm not trying to disagree with you all or start an argument I'm just curious.

 

[bruceb58]

With a pontoon, you won't be able to see if its leaking until its too late. With your Starcraft, you will see the water entering your boat.

 

[Tnstratofam]

:facepalm: Umm I guess I didn't think about that. Also I do have a bilge pump where a pontoon doesn't. Sometimes I can't see the forest for the trees.

 

[bruceb58]

:facepalm: Umm I guess I didn't think about that. Also I do have a bilge pump where a pontoon doesn't. Sometimes I can't see the forest for the trees.

Yeah, I have a pontoon boat so that is why I was thinking about that.

 

[lncoop]

Ouch. I agree that really needs to be welded then pressure tested. I know things are different in Italy than they are here, but is there no way you can rent or borrow a trailer? It would be worth the hassle.

 

[Reel Kahuna]

I lived in Italy for three years and can relate to the OP’s dilemma of limited resources, so one has to improvise. Having said that and not being able to have the tube tig welded this is what I’d do.

Cut an aluminum patch to adequately cover the affected area. Scuff the tube surface and the patch areas with emery paper or steel wool then thoroughly clean. Apply JB weld on both the tube and patch. Secure the patch on the tube using pop rivets. Apply additional JB around the perimeter of the patch and over each rivet. Let JB weld cure for 48 hrs. Afterwards, spray soapy water over the patch and air test the tube. If there's a leak, sand down the area, clean and apply more JB weld where the soapy water is bubbling. Repeat soapy water and air test the tub. If no leak then you're good to go.

Disclaimer: If the above process is unsuccessful, then you’re dead in the water....…pun intended.

Best of luck.

 

[Jeep Man]

If you don"t have a boat trailer, can you remove the pontoon and transport it on a truck or a regular trailer? Taking it to a welder is your best option.