Posted by Weatherly on 02/08/18 - 3:01 AM
#3
Congratulations on your purchase of a 1968 Boston Whaler 16 footer boat. Do you know what model you have? What is your stencil number? Many first time Boston Whaler owners that buy a Fisher-Pierce boat ask how to repair gelcoat cracking and crazing. The condition is caused by age, weather exposure, and ultraviolet exposure that breaks down the elasticity of the material. A condition like what you describe on your boat, vertical spider cracks in the gelcoat above the waterline, is a cosmetic condition. The cracks in the gelcoat do not go through the fiberglass core. You can wet sand the hull and then compound/wax, to seal the surface for use. You do not need to take a grinder to the boat and remove the gelcoat. Use the boat, enjoy it, and if you want one without gel-age-patena, find another one for sale in better condition.