Question:
Last weekend, I scraped my boat over some rocks (20ft Four Winns). There
are some deep gouges on the hull that run along for about 8 feet under the
boat. In most places these gouges are just surface scratches, but in a few
areeas I think they have gone completely through the gelcoat into the
fiberglass. Do I need to repair these scratches or can I leave them as they
are. Is there a do it yourself gelcoat kit for this or should I have my
dealer repair the boat? What will happen if I do not repair them?
Answer:
- Don't forget the rec.boats map project address:
http://www.undertech.com/boaters
All are welcome to join in and find a friend
or at least someone to mooch boat rides off of
while on vacation
- I would find a reputable fiberglass repair shop and have the boat completely
inspected before I'd ever put it back into the water. There are many things
that could happen to the bottom from delamination to blistering if the gouges
are left unattended. I'm not trying to scare you but an ounce of
prevention........
BTW, don't take it to the dealer. They will just farm it out to a local
fiberglass shop since most don't can't afford to have this level of expertise
on the payroll. Ask around, especially local independent mechanics or boat
yards. This way you can be relatively sure that the advice the fiberglass guy
gives you is accurate. Then take that advice and get the boat fixed.
Also, call your insurance agent, there's a very good chance the damage is
covered under your hull insurance.
