how to replace gel coat in small area

[Mike Husted]

last fall during a storm the dock we rented at Seneca Lake in Southeast Ohio, broke loose and sent our 1971 22' O'Day across the little bay. It finally settled against a pontoon boat. About 16" diameter section of the starboard side above the waterline was scraped all the way down to the fiberglass shell. There are no holes just a bit of filling and I'm not sure this is something I can do or if the materials (not even sure of what kind materials yet)need to be applied by a professional (which would be limited here in St. Clairsville Ohio). Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated. Mike

 

[P.MacDuff]

Fiberglass first aid

I had a problem such as this. I had to cut away all the area around the damage. Then apply a solution that is provided in the fiberglass compound to assist with adherence. I used the west system. mixed small amounts of the fiberglass and placed it in the area, built up slowly. Then used coarse to fine sand paper, just for fiber glass it is along process. Follow instructions! wear gloves and safety goggles, work in agarage with door open and good luck!!!

 

[Bill Bell]

Corvette Body Shop

I once had similar storm damage on a small lake in Missouri. We had no marine fiberglass people in the area.I took the boat on its trailer to a auto body shop that specialized in corvettes. They did a great job at a very reasonable price.Bill

 

[John]

ship shape boating link

Ship Shape Boating on the DIY network had a program on gel coat. Here's a link to their site. Hope it helps.

 

[Bill]

Look right here in the Expert Forums

Look under Gel Coat and Plastics repair and you will find a good description of the steps and materials required.If you want more information go to WM and get Don Casey's book Sailboat Hull and Deck Repair.HTHBill