O'Day 27 Core Material and Replacement

[Rusty123]

I have been negotiating to purchase an O'Day 27. the boat has been neglected for a number of years and the survey indicates considerable moisture over much of the foredeck, around the chain plates and in the cockpit. The questions I have are; what is the core of an O'Day. I suspect it is balsa but have not been able to confirm. The second questions is has anyone had to deal with replacing a significant amount of the core material on this type of boat. I would appreciate your comments on just how difficult a job this turned out to be.Thanks

 

[Warren]

Core Replacement

I have an O'Day 22 (1972). The core material is balsa. The balsa rots when water gets into it, over time there is no way to really stop the water. When the balsa rots the deck gets "springy". To remedy this situtation, I drill holes around and over the "solf" area. At your local hardware store you can purchase "non-expanding" foam insulation. Spray the insulation into the holes. After the insulation sets-up drill out the holes to the depth of the fiberglass deck (3/16" +-) and fill the holes with marine-tex or similar epoxy. "Dab" some paint on and your done. In the case of chainplates, make sure that they are very securely anchored. Good Luck!!

 

[Don Evans]

Not Difficult, But Time-Consuming

Depending on just how extensive the rot is, it could be a major effort. Consult extensively with the surveyor. Only you can answer if your up for it. The material is not that expensive, but your time commitment will be. If it was me I would consider the worth of the boat relative to the project. There are other boats out there, OD27's included that will be in better condition. If you are really set on this one, use it to your advantage and low-ball her. You may want to research the cure before you decide. You have time, don't rush into it, I'll bet there not lineing up to buy her. Get Don Caseys "Fiberglass Hull and Deck Repair" book, scour the web for information...its out there. Speak to fiberglass and epoxy suppliers for leads and tips. West Systems epoxy has good info on these type of repairs.I have found both balsa and plywood on my OD25. Depends where on the deck the rot is. Either material calls for removal of the deckskin, removal and replacemement of the rot and replacement and blending in the deckskin. Its fussy, and time consuming work, but quite doable for the DIY'er on a small scale. Good luck with your decision.Don