Filling a hole in the hull

[rosipeter]

We have just bought a new depth sounder which doesn't fit in the hole left by the previous one and in any case can be fitted inside the hull (Nasa Clipper) so we are left with a hole in the hull to be filled. I've done a bit of research on the internet but I don't know anyone that has actually done it. Any helpful advice/ideas would be gratefully received.

 

[ms1]

I would recommend you leave the old fitting in place unitl you can get it done properly when the boat is next out of the water.

 

[smth448]

I would treat it like any other repair. How you go about it depends on your confidence at laying up GRP. Make sure you can get at everything well, often difficult with a modern boat and grind back the inside of the hull to expose Glass fibres. Wear a suitable mask whilst doing this.
Then tape a piece of polished formica over the outside of the hull, polished surface to the hull. Lay up fibreglass in the hole untill it is full and then a few layers over the top of that, overlapping the edge by up to 6 inches, if you can. Best to use Epoxy under water as it will stick to the original GRP better than polyester.
If you are at all unsure I would get a professional in to do it. You will probably be amazed at how cheap it is and you will steep soundly at night without worrying about your own GRP work.

 

[nigelmercier]

I think I'd be inclined to just fit a blanking plug.

 

[2nd_apprentice]

 

[grafozz]

i have ! i filled the hole with epoxy and woven mat, in a grp hull. 4 years ago i filled 2 through hull fittings depth and speed (also nasa ) and now have it fitted in a short length of 50mm hose ,epoxied to the inside of the boat with some olive oil filling ! masking tape on the outside ,fill with mix ,allow to cure ,remove tape and paint -simple