Hull cracks

[ed Golden]

I have notice some "spider web gelcoat cracks on my hull around the turn of the bilge where she hangs off the trailer. I was going to 'widen' them, then putty them. Also my boat (a 77' 22) is stored on its trailer and I have noticed a "soft" spot like a small "dent" on the starboard side where she hangs off the trailer. The hull seems to be sound and there is no delamination or blistering. Dose this sound familiar to anyone or does it sound like a major problem? I have had no structural or leakage problems that i am aware of.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners]

Crazing

Normally crazing is purely cosmetic but not always. I'd be a little more concerned if they were located around the keel. Are there lots of them, just a few, very thin, wide open? If there aren't very many and they're relatively thin, you'll probably be fine with your plan. Be sure to fair it really well before repainting.The soft spot might be a concern. Is it soft to the touch or does it just look like a dent? We bought an old 22 this past spring that had a couple of what I would call "hard" spots on it. Kind of a flat spot. Is that what you're seeing? If so, you're probably ok.Bottom line: If you're not having any kind of leakage and the structure looks good, just keep an eye out and you'll be fine.LaDonna

 

[R.W.Landau]

soft spot

If the soft spot is at the tail end of the bunk, you need to check to make sure your bunks are the shape of the boat. If the boat is setting on a bunk that is miss shaped it will create a 10" diameter or so dent in the boat. This is not good for the boat. Adjust the bunk before it truly does become a soft spot. I would get advice before you try it. Verify how many points support each bunk, ( two or three)and can you get a jack under the bunk support?r.w.landau

 

[Doug]

Hull Cracks Too

I,ve got a 1974 Catalina 22 with exactly the same spider cracking you're describing. I'd be interested to hear how your repair work goes! Let us know.