Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: thin gel coat

Posted by 1531665anthony on 04/25/09 - 6:41 PM
#1

I just pulled my old tubes out and it was a good thing. They were ready to go. Looking at the tube holes I notice that the gel coat is very thin. 1/16 of an inch. Is this standard?
There is some cracking around each hole from removing the tubes. What should I do to prep the hole for new tubes? Thanks.

Posted by Turpin on 04/26/09 - 5:59 AM
#2

well on my 13 ft sport there was only a thin smear of gel coat that lined the hole, most of which was gone as I did not have tubes, allowing water into the hull. Most people here are using 3m 5200, I believe, when installing new tubes.

Edited by Turpin on 04/26/09 - 6:05 AM

Posted by modenacart on 04/26/09 - 6:32 AM
#3

I prepped the area by sanding off any loose material and dirt. Cleaned with acetone and used 5200 to seal the tube.

Posted by MW on 04/26/09 - 1:44 PM
#4

I prepped the hole w/ sand paper, and Acetone too, I used 4200, then "Marine Tex" on the tip's of the PVC tube (I know M/T will cure even when wet). I got a good bond, then ground and sanded down to "almost flush", it came out pretty good. A good water tight seat was what I was more interested in than "Cosmetic's", it's below the water line and it's getting bottom paint anyway, I really don't want to go back to that job ever again.
:@