3.4.1
FIBERGLASSTOUCH UP
AND REPAIR
Scratches, Shallow Nicks, Gouges, Small Holes
4at do not penetrate through the hull)
-
These repairs are easy because only the surface of the boat is da-
maged. They fall into two categories: (1) damage to the gel coat
colored outer surface, and
(2)
holes or gouges that are deep enough to
penetrate the fiber glass reinforced area of the boat. The repair opera-
tions are similar.
For damage to the gel coat surface, you will need asmall can of gel
coat, of the same color as your boat, and a small amount of catalyst.
For deeper holes or gouges
(118"
or more) you will also need some
short strandsof fiber glass which can be trimmed from fiber glass mat or
purchased in the form of "milled fibers." These materials can be pur-
chased from your dealer.
(1) Be sure the area around the damage is wiped clean and dry.
RE
move any wax or oil from the inside of the hole or scratct
(2) Usingapower drill with a burr attachment, roughenthe bottor
and sides of the damagedarea and feather the edge surroundin
the scratch or gouge. Do not "undercut" this edge. (If th
scratch or hole
is
shallow and penetrates only the color gt
coat, skip to step No.
8.)
(3)
Into a jar lid or on a piece of cardboard, pour asmall amoun
of gel coat
. .
.
just enough to fill the area being worked or
Mix an equal amount of milled fibers with this gel coat, usin
a putty knife or small flat stick. Then add two drops o
catalyst, using an eyedropper for accurate measurement. Fo
a half-dollar-size pile of gel coat, this amount of catalyst wil
give you 15 to 20 minutes working time before it begins
t~
"gel". Carefully cut the catalyst into the gel coat and mi:
thoroughly.
(4)
Work this mixture of gel coat, fibers and catalyst into tht
damaged area, using the sharp point of a putty knife or knifc
blade to press it into the bottom of the hole and to puncturc
any air bubble which may occur. Fillthe scratch or hole abovt
the surrounding undamaged area about 111
6".
(5) Lay a piece of cellophane or waxed paper over the repair tc
cut off the air and start the "cure."
