Fixing a leak with the boat in the water

[JC]

I have recently launched my used C-22. After a few hours I noticed a small leak (seepage) from the knot meter sensor which is located adjacent to the keel lock down bolt. If possible I would rather not pull the boat to make repairs. I have an automatic bilge to prevent excess water in the hull. I have tried using a product call "Propoxoy 20" which hardens in water to stop the leak. This has not helped. I'm guessing the water pressure is preventing me making a good seal. Or maybe the fiberglass is to smooth or dirty for the epoxoy to bond well. I now have made made the sensor a permanent addition to the boat by use of the epoxoy. Does anyone have any experience (or suggestions) for making repairs while the boat is in the water? Is there a product that might work better then the propoxoy? Could I use some device on the outside of the hull to temporarly stop the water pressure on the sensor (I was thinking a toilte plunger)?

 

[Bob Camarena]

Which Part

You didn't say specifically where the leak was. I assume that your sensor is like most in which the sensor itself is essentially a removable "plug" that locks into a thru-hull. If the "plug" is leaking, it might be the "O" rings on it, which should be easy to replace. Most sensors come with a solid plug that you can use to seal the hole while you clean or repair the sensor. It's a little scary, but not much water comes in during the switch. If you've epoxied the removable sensor to the thru hull I'm afraid you've created additional problems in that it will be impossible to clean from inside the boat.If the leaking is around the thru-hull itself, I'd pull the boat since it will take more work. I assume you have a trailer for your C-22. Be glad you have a boat that's easy to pull out of the water.