Transom/Hull crack repair question

[Scaaty]

This is a 16 foot Flatbottom. Had (what else) a big Merc on, and I'm in the process of rebuilding it with (what else) big Merc. The crack in the photos (top of the transom right side, to the right edge where the hull and deck meet) is mostly cosmetic, as the transom is solid, left side fine, and this just appears to be a pretty decent stress crack. Scraped it out just a touch, and the plan is to grind it out with a 1/8 Fiber wheel, clean it out good, rough, etc, and fill it with (heres the question)..WHAT? So much stuff available out there its insane. Any info of what to use is greatly appreciated. I know my motors, but I'm terrible at this sort of thing (but will probably get better before I'm finished!). Thanks

 

[andy6374]

Re: Transom/Hull crack repair question

Well keep grinding until the crack is gone. Until you grind it all out you won't know if it's just the gelcoat that is cracked or if the glass is cracked as well.

If the glass is cracked you'll need to grind out the crack (which may or may not be alot of glass) and then go over it with new glass and resin. Do it carefully though or else getting all the original lines back will be a PITA. Then skimcoat the area with some polyester glazing putty and sand smooth, then gelcoat. If you are painting you can use an epoxy filler like system 3 quik fair.

If it's just the gelcoat that is cracked, then grind it back at a taper (an angle or straight die grinder which be my tool of choice here) and then fill with one of the above putties, sand smooth and either paint or gelcoat.

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Transom/Hull crack repair question

I'll go in there with a angle grinder and a 1/2" 45 degree burr and start digging it out...see just how deep it goes. Its deeper than just the Gelcoat, thats for sure

I guess what I'm asking is any mixed glass will just run out. Looking for some "miricle in a tube" or 2 part heavy putty stuff to cram in there that won't run (aka "boat bondo), and need it to be hard, not flexible when cured.

Its outside, and need a little better (warmer) weather before I can do any fixin anyway. Thanks

 

[Solittle]

Re: Transom/Hull crack repair question

Marine Tex - A two part mix that is like steel when cured.

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Transom/Hull crack repair question

Yep, thats the one! Knew there was something I saw before that I needed, and could not think of it. Saw it (and the price!) at Boaters World today...Thanks, thats what I need. (and more money!)