Project boat

[Keith7481]

My father has recently bought a project sailboat, a '78 Columbia 9.6. It has not been in the water for the last two years and we are trying to get it sorted out and into sailing condition. I've noticed some cracks that I suspect leak some water into the interior of the boat. One set of cracks is on the hatch cover, looks like someone might have stepped on it, no major puncture, but definately some small cracks that look like they could leak. Also in the forward corners of the starboard cockpit seat there are a few small cracks. While I suspect this will eventually need some fiberglass work, I was wondering if I could paint over these cracks to seal them, at least temporarily? If so, any particular type of paint that might be helpful? I was considering an elastomeric paint, often used on the roofs of RV's and is a good paint sealant? Thanks for any suggestions. Keith

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Project boat

I was wondering if I could paint over these cracks to seal them, at least temporarily? If so, any particular type of paint that might be helpful? I was considering an elastomeric paint, often used on the roofs of RV's and is a good paint sealant? Thanks for any suggestions. Keith

Nope..

Blow boats should #1 be concerned about Through Hull fittings. If you have ANY fittings below the water line then REBED them NOW.

Other leaks just go into the bilge.

The only other concern is with your deck fittings ( stay fittings, Stanchions, cleats etc ) anything on the deck will kill a sailboat core.

Hatch leaks will get your bed wet..but not your boat because it just drains to the bilge.

No paint or elasomeric/mastic is going to cure your ills .. sorry..

YD.