Saildrive leg fairing rubber

[johnnys]

Hi all, boat was new last year, when lifted the fairing had come adrift. I've read other posts about refitting but my question is;
the rubber was not abraided so I am left with a perfectly smooth skim of adhesive on the hull which is very well attached, do I need to remove this or can I glue onto it? Just trying to find a way round what I think is going to be a pain in the rear. Any advice gratefully received.

 

[AIDY]

to be sure remove the glue on the hull and any excess on the rubber. abrade both the hull and the rubber and glue back in place. get yourself a 1" decorators roller and roll over the surface to ensure good contact to the hull.

 

[Boomshanka]

If your boat was new, new just last year... I'd be going for a little natter with the dealer/broker (assuming htey're still there).

 

[gianenrico]

And do allow 24 hours at least for the glue to cure: under water it seldom does!!
Cheers

 

[Dave_Rolfe]

As others have said, clean and prepare but then use a two part adhesive intended for repairs to Hypalon dinghies and ribs. Does the job well as recommended by a Yanmar engine dealer.

 

[Sans Bateau]

I used Evostick to replace mine, 5 years ago, and its still in place. But as you say, and there cannot be enough emphasis put on it, clean and prepare. Clean the gel coat well beyond the limit of the gaiter, 20CM clear and when I say clean, not a trace of any foreign substance at all, then degrease it with cellulose thinner or similar, then abrade the surface. The rubber should be cleaned in the same way. Once clean keep your hands grease/oil free and apply the Evostick EXACTLY as is says on the tin, bring the film on the hull beyond the edge of the rubber, 10cm wider all around wider than the rubber. This is what I did and time has proved it works.

 

[PeterGibbs]

I do so strongly endorse this advice - both surfaces must be pristine, and time allowed for curing before immersion.

If the gaiter comes off when underway, there's all hell to pay!

PWG

 

[Ariadne]

Keep it clean and spotless as has been said above.

I used a Sikaflex adhesive on both surfaces as well as a Sikaflex prima, still in place after 3K + miles!