Swim Ladder/Gelcoat Cracks

[KPM]

I have a 81 C22 with circlular stress cracks in the gelcoat several inches from where the ladder supports contact the hull when the ladder is down. Visual exam reveals some flexing in the hull but not out of the ordinary. I hope. My query ? Is this a problem or should I just repair the cracks and watch it. I dont see a way to reinforce the glass from the inside should this be necessary. Would circular plates bonded to the outside of the hull with polysulfide or whatevery work. It is winter in Ohio and not much to do except worry.

 

[Bill]

Plates

Had the same thing starting to happen on a new 350. I had two SS plated cut which iI attached to the hull with 3m 5200. Seems to of corrected the problem.

 

[Ted]

rubber bumpers

I'm not sure if you have rubber bumpers on the ends of your ladder supports. If not, that would explain the cracks.Regards,Ted

 

[Dennis]

Rubber stops

I resined in some rubber stops on the hull itself, where the ladder meets, plus put rubber stops on the ladder itself. Also reinforced inside the hull with a wood rib, fiberglassed into place! Very little flex now!