Cracked gel coat around mast step

[bob f]

I recently acquired an O'Day 19 and the gel coat shows lots of cracking in the area around the mast step. In addition, there are some discolorations showing up on the ceiling of the cabin under the mast. Everything feels solid. What kind of support is in the cabin top, under the mast? Do I have to worry about rotting wood under there? Any thoughts would be appreciated.Bob F

 

[Hockeytonk]

Cracking gelcoat

Bob,I'm afraid that what you have going on is more than just gelcoat. With only two photos I can't say for sure, it does appear to be core damage and well a fiberglass damage. It is repairable, but the damage looks like it has past an easy repair. When this much damage is present at a critical point, like under a mast, the damaged section will need to be cut out and repaired. That means that the core will need to be replaced and the fiberglass as well. I wish I had a quick easy fix, unfortunately there isn't one for this kind of repair. If you want to post more pictures or send me more angle shots, I may be able to tell you more.Best wishes,Brianwrasse@comcast.net