Sinking Boats

Radar67 · February 07, 2009, 08:47:56 PM

Now that I have your attention, anybody got any tips for repairing thumb sized holes in an aluminum boat? JB Weld?, two part marine epoxy? Welding is not an option, can't find anyone who can do it. It is very thin, not the heavy .125 like used on duck boats.

sawguy21 · February 07, 2009, 08:58:00 PM

JB Weld is a good option, use it with a decent size patch. I have found it does not work well as a plug by itself.

sprucebunny · February 07, 2009, 08:59:13 PM

I was looking for something to patch the roof of my travel trailer recently. The RV place had some pieces of alum. with adhesive on them. About 4x6". Maybe stick one of these inside and spread JB WEld or epoxy on the outside ?

I've seen people just fiberglass the whole thing. This was because they live near the ocean and made the mistake of putting 'anti-fouling' paint (which has copper in it) on the boats.

beenthere · February 07, 2009, 09:11:43 PM

Radar
Unload those cannons when in an aluminum boat...hard to patch those big holes... ;D ;D

Radar67 · February 07, 2009, 09:13:18 PM

Someone patched a couple of holes on this one with fiberglass. Some held, others didn't. I read about steel flex epoxy a little while ago. Seems people are using it to coat the bottoms of their boats to make them slicker, suppose to water proof too. I've also read about 3M 5200 marine sealant. It has got some good comments.

I was thinking a good sanding and scuffing, a piece of aluminum window screen top and bottom, and a good coat of epoxy of both sides.

BT, this ain't from no cannon, just a wear hole from grass and stumps. :D :D

pineywoods · February 07, 2009, 10:47:14 PM

Radar, I have patched a few by riveting an aluminum patch over the hole. Works as long as you stay away from salt water. Use aircraft rivets, pop rivets will leak. If you don't know how to set aircraft rivets, I can show you...

Radar67 · February 07, 2009, 11:21:52 PM

Where can you get aircraft rivets and how do you set them? Might be an interesting technique to learn.

Jeff · February 07, 2009, 11:34:06 PM

I've seen this stuff at engine shows and it looks like its pretty amazing stuff. You can use a propane torch.

http://www.durafix.com/

pineywoods · February 07, 2009, 11:35:11 PM

I get aircraft rivets from a surplus place in Kansas city. I have a plentiful supply and the necessary tools. If we can get up another get-togather, I'll bring tools and rivets, you bring the boat....

Radar67 · February 08, 2009, 12:31:30 AM

That looks like some interesting stuff Jeff, know anyone who has actually tried it out?

That sounds good Dwayne, but I may need to use it before then. ;)

Jeff · February 08, 2009, 09:11:20 AM

I've only watched the demos at the engine shows.

DanG · February 08, 2009, 10:56:05 AM

You can get that stuff at Harbor Freight. I've seen it being sold at flea markets too. It's a little tricky to get the hang of, but it works good.

Tom · February 08, 2009, 12:42:36 PM

I bought a few sticks from a show once, just so that I would have it. I keep it with my acetylene torch, but acetylene is too hot. It takes a cooler flame. I have used it, with good success, on small items around the house, a lawnmower and stuff like that. I seldom find myself needing to fix aluminum, but I have it just in case. It can be used to fill, but a large hole is better with a filler/sealer. A piece of drink can works.

Radar67 · February 08, 2009, 02:36:48 PM

There is a harbor freight fairly close, I may give them a call to see if they have it. I usually make a day trip out of going there, since it is a 90 mile trip either way I go.

DanG · February 08, 2009, 03:20:00 PM

Check around locally too. Wherever they have welding supplies. They just may have it and save you a long trip. ;)

pineywoods · February 08, 2009, 05:39:25 PM

That "aluminum welding rod" stuff works pretty good in some cases. It is actually a braze, not a weld, the melting point of the rod is considerable less than aluminum. Just be aware that some aluminum alloys are absolutely un-weldable. 2024 aircraft stuff in particular. Try it someplace non-critical first like a seat. If the boat is all riveted with no welds, you probably won't have much luck. I like an aluminum patch on both sides, coated with silicone and riveted through all 3 pieces.

Radar67 · February 08, 2009, 05:51:48 PM

The corner seams on this boat are welded. The seats and ribs are riveted in. There is an area between the front and middle seat that is really thin and shows some signs of corrosion/pitting. Whoever had the boat originally covered the inside of these areas with fiberglass. The fiberglass has rotted from age. I acquired this boat back in 94 or 95 and have no idea how old it is. It has served me well in the duck waters, and has been sitting, several years, on the ground in front of our pond. If I can't patch the hole pretty easy, I am going to consider another boat.

Fla._Deadheader · February 08, 2009, 06:17:08 PM

If you get the metal real clean, the 5200 (NOT fast dry), will never let go. Use a patch on both sides, and spread the 5200 on the hull. Put a LITTLE pressure, so the edges of the patches are IN the 5200, and wait about 5 days.

cheyenne · February 10, 2009, 10:00:29 PM

I have used alumaweld with a propane torch many times & it has always worked. I would start from one side & build to the other just make sure it's clean.....Aluminumrepair.com......Cheyenne

fishpharmer · February 10, 2009, 11:24:07 PM

I sunk a boat in the middle of Black River, SC. Hit a big log wide open. Bow went up stern went down.
Just before dark.
Walked a mile through the swamp. Did I mention there are gators and mocassins in SC.

Oh, dang this isn't about sinking boats?