gelcoat repair

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Sep 18, 2005
15
Macgregor 26S MI
I returned from a 3 day trip to the north channel last weekend. Unfortunately we ran into some 20-30 knot winds while in a bay and ended up having our 26S pushed into some rocks on the beach all over one side of the hull. Many spots about 1"-4" in diameter scraped through the gelcoat to the fiberglass. Should this kind of damage be repaired by experts or is a owner repair a viable option?
 
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Steve Paul

It depends on you

Steve, I've been messing with gel coat repairs for years and there are techniques to make a successful repair that you'll not hate. You might be surprized at the cost (not what you'd expect) if you shop around for a freelancer who is good at this. Fortunately the Mac is a simple white color and repairs should blend well if done properly. There are many books and videos on the subject that would help you. Are you ready to practice is the likely question and do you have the time? I know I did auto repair for years before I was comfortable with my repair/paint jobs. Gelcoat repairs are a little simpler actually but do require a planned approach and patience. Good luck with this and let us know how it goes. Steve P.
 
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Ben

Last isue of Boatworks

Take a look at the last issue of BOATWORKS. They have step by step intructions for gelcoat repair. Good luck
 
May 4, 2005
4,062
Macgregor 26d Ft Lauderdale, Fl
gelcote color matching

fwiw, I found a local (FT LAUD) fiberglass supply that matches gelcote. just got some. $30/ quart. matched up pretty good... but too early to tell on UV fading. (I Had to bring in a cut out section of cabin, but a hatch should work too, 48hr turn around.) http://www.fgci.com/
 
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