Installing a GRP Stern tube

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bajo

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Please, how do you instal a GRP tube if the actual place where the tube has to be is exceptionally narrow due to the ''V'' shape in that area of the hull. Tell me is it possible to POUR a west system mixture to set the tube in,and if so what would the mixture to be poured consist of and how to go about the whole proceedure.( Here looking at the best place for good advise)
 
I fitted a new one my old Hustler 30 a good few years ago now, and there aren't many narrower sterned than the Hustler!


Having cut out the old one (one of the filthiest jobs ever!) I wedged the new one into place with the shaft securely wedged into position at both ends to ensure it being dead centre of the stern tube. The tube, BTW, was left protruding through the hull at the aft end for trimming flush later.

I mixed up ordinary GRP resin in batches, and poured it in in layers to prevent over-heating until about halfway along and up the tube. Once that had gone off, I laid layers of glaas cloth over the tube and up the hull sides, flooding it with resin until the tube was covered. I left it all to thoroughly cure.

I then removed the shaft, trimmed the tube off flush with the hull at it's exit and filled and sanded bubble voids there.

Inside, there was virtually nothing to do except paint Danboline over the grp work and fit the old-type stern gland on.

Never had a single problem for the five years I owned her, nor did one of best friends who owned her for a further 12 years.

Ok, I guess these days you could use epoxy, but if I was doing the job again, I wouldn't. I'd do exactly the same.

HTP's
 
Just in case he does not see your post, may I suggest you send a private message (pm) to oldsaltoz. I believe he is the best person to ask for advice.
You might want to disclose the dimensions and what material e.g ss, grp from epoxy or epoxy vinyl ester or polyester.
 
A few pictures on this series of pages - the page links are at the top of the page, and the stern tube details start on page 4. The tube was a carbon fibre wind surfing mast in a previous life.
If you have to pour the epoxy into place, I would be inclined to add some microfibres (obviously not too much as it won't flow so well). You might be able to prod some pre-wetted strips of woven glass cloth into place. The main problem will be cleaning the existing surfaces to get a decent bond - if the bilges are covered in grease, paint and dirt nothing will stick.
 
Hi Brian,Jerry,Richard and Srp ,Thanks for coming in.My 22'' galion never had an inboard and no stern tube fitted.if i can see how to send a photo I will and show you the problem.
Great to have you there!!
 
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