Back on March 30th, I posted a question to the group, and I got tons of input. I wanted to make sure I posted the end of the story so that others might benefit. This is brief (ok, somewhat brief), but if anyone needs details I'd be happy to give them. My email is cfmike@hotmail.com. ***Remember, I am not a professional (well, not in boat repair), but I studied, took reasonable steps, and completed the repair in what I hope was a deliberate and competent attempt at a not-so-simple matter. I do not hold myself out as "one who now knows it all" and y'all should treat my words as such. My thanks once again to all who chimed in to assist my education. She launched today, so I hope when she hauls next fall that my work was up to snuff. As an aside, particular thanks to the member who pointed out that the lead was toxic. Although I didn't read the post until now, I did wear a respirator and other protection and I'm heartily glad that there are folks out there who point out seemingly obvious hazards to neophytes like me. To revisit, I had what appeared to be either a badly repaired (and failed) catalina smile issue...or worse damage to the fore part of the keel. (I've reasonably concluded that it was a "Catalina smile" that was poorly repaired.) It took me about six separate days to complete the repair. On day one I chisled and ground out the repair area leaving a well-tapered area for the new West System epoxy, etc. On day one I also applied two coats of straight epoxy (no filler). On day 2 I was able to lay two complete layers of epoxy (105)/hardener(205) complete with fiberglass cloth. A good start. On days 3, 4, and 5 I finished the structural hardener layering and then applied multiple fairing coats with an epoxy/fairing filler mix. Since it was the leading edge of the keel this took a bit more patience to get it all looking smooth, pretty, and transparent. On day 5-6 I applied two more layers of straight epoxy as a sealer, roughed her up and applied the bottom paint. Upon completion, you couldn't see a single blemish, and I was downright proud. I'll be thoroughly pleased next fall when I see what a season does to the repair area, but for now, I'm happy and saved over $1,000 (which those guys really really deserve!). I've got to comment on the West System products. *Most importantly, I read, re-read, and re-re-read the West System book on fiberglass repair. It is BY FAR the best $2.95 I spent. I won't say I look forward to my next major fiberglass repair, but after reading and following instructions I feel completely unthreatened by minor fiberglass/epoxy repairs. With a lot of planning, patience, and all necessary safety gear, anyone can contemplate using the West System products. It's messy, daunting to the uninitiated, and somewhat costly, but a job like mine is doable because these products make it easier for the novice. So, now our newly named S/V Home Run - a Catalina 30 - is tugging at her mooring in Jamestown, RI. If you are ever in Naragansett Bay, give us a holler...my father and I are at the helm as much as life allows. Fair winds and enjoy the time while you have it for crying out loud!
- Status
Bolts tightened, aye.
Yes, we tightened all the bolts before epoxy was applied. Thanks again, Mike
Yes, we tightened all the bolts before epoxy was applied. Thanks again, Mike
Mike, good for you !!
Just proves that with just a little time and patience almost any boat fix can be handled by anyone. So when are you buying us all dinner and a round of drinks.
(re: I'm happy and saved over $1,000 (which those guys really really deserve!).
Just proves that with just a little time and patience almost any boat fix can be handled by anyone. So when are you buying us all dinner and a round of drinks.
(re: I'm happy and saved over $1,000 (which those guys really really deserve!).- Status