Filler/sealent below the waterline

[jonathankent]

What is reccomended for use below the waterline. I want to 'fill in' some indents etc on the edge of the keel and bilge plates. Would the normal marine filler, normally for grp/gel coat work, be suitable for filling/bonding to metal below the waterline.

Thanks in advance.

 

[JimMcMillan]

And again,although you can get some specialist stuff the name of which eludes me as its at the boat. Expensive though.I will be at the boat Monday P.M. me if you want the name.

Jim

 

[Topcat47]

I'd reccommend an epoxy/filler mixture....West + talc for instance, although there are epoxy fillers available at your FNC. I'm off polyester fillers (isopon et al) just now

 

[oldsaltoz]

G'day Jonathan,

If you are looking for a good strong bond and easy sanding, then an epoxy resin mixed with 'closed cell' balloons or microspheres will do the job.

Clean the areas by sanding and wash with a little Acetone and lots of clean white rags Cotton is best, 15 minutes before applying.

Avagoodweekend......

 

[Sheerline]

Old Salt Oz, would the epoxy bond okay to a lead keel?

 

[oldsaltoz]

The short answer is yes.

However, it would help if you could tell us if it's a new keel or an old one as the preparation will differ.

First give the whole keel a sanding with a 200 grit sandpaper and include any imperfections, fill any low areas or dings with closed cell micro balloons or 'Q' cells mixed with epoxy and let it cure for 24 hrs, then before sanding wash with fresh water running from a hose and scrub with a plastic kitchen scourer till the water no longer forms beads, this will remove the residue left by curing; if you sand it without washing you only smear the contaminants all over the area, this can and does cause delamination.

Lead will oxidise over a short time period so sand it to an even finish the same day you coat it. Apply at least 3 coats to ensure the coating is strong; you can do this with a roller and tip off with a brush to give a very smooth finish, epoxy can be applied wet on tacky to save sanding between coats.

If it is allowed to cure and more resin is to be applied, wash as above. When all coating has cured, wash it as above and give it a light sanding, just enough to remove the high gloss and apply your epoxy primer coat.

Avagoodweekend.