Wet work between tides

[andrewbartlett]

I have a very heavy 8' grp pulling tender on the chains in Chichester Harbour. The boat leaks to the extent that it is no longer useable for purpose. Reason for leak is two small bolts along the centreline have worn loose and each tide seawater is passing through each. They are about 3' apart. My plan is to mend the leaks between tides by taking out the small bolts ,turning the boat over and using two stainless self tapping screws slightly thicker than the resultant holes with suitable washers and waterproof mastic (which sort best for this job bearing in mind all surfaces will be wet?) I may have to saw the protruding screws off insde the boat or perhaps use corks to disarm. Since my boating is done largely solo I can tolerate the odd bodge so long as it works!Any advice appreciated!

 

[VicS]

I have a very heavy 8' grp pulling tender on the chains in Chichester Harbour. The boat leaks to the extent that it is no longer useable for purpose. Reason for leak is two small bolts along the centreline have worn loose and each tide seawater is passing through each. They are about 3' apart. My plan is to mend the leaks between tides by taking out the small bolts ,turning the boat over and using two stainless self tapping screws slightly thicker than the resultant holes with suitable washers and waterproof mastic (which sort best for this job bearing in mind all surfaces will be wet?) I may have to saw the protruding screws off insde the boat or perhaps use corks to disarm. Since my boating is done largely solo I can tolerate the odd bodge so long as it works!Any advice appreciated!

You dont say what the bolts are for ???........ removing them and glassing over the holes not an option ????

 

[andrewbartlett]

I dont know what the small bolts were originally for. Perhaps holding on a keel band .It was a sailing boat and has a redundant centre board case but they do not play a part in that . They do not appear to be doing any useful job now at least.Removing them and glassing over the holes may be an option but I don't know if that would be an option on wet surfaces between tides and in current cold temperatures ?

 

[bikedaft]

real bodge - chewing gum - it works surprisingly well. keep a bucket handy if you do head off tho

sealant/bolt - polysulphide - for below waterline

 

[TQA]

If cold fill ziploc bag with boiling water wrap in towel and place in insulated box
Remove bolts.
Tape over inside.
TURN OVER
Fill hole with 5 min epoxy.
If cold cover with ziploc and towel and box.

Wait 30 mins.

job done

 

[alahol2]

CT1 can be applied to wet surfaces. Forget self tappers, replace with a couple of nuts/bolts/washers.

 

[onesea]

CT1 can be applied to wet surfaces. Forget self tappers, replace with a couple of nuts/bolts/washers.

Must admit I would go with Pan head screws (out side less drag) and nuts (nylock) on inside, less likely to fall out ...

What ever gunge takes your fancy on the outside...

 

[KAL]

CT1 can be applied to wet surfaces. Forget self tappers, replace with a couple of nuts/bolts/washers.

+1

 

[andrewbartlett]

You are all so helpful I feel as if the boat is repaired already

 

[alahol2]

You are all so helpful I feel as if the boat is repaired already

Keep talking and someone will be round to do it for you...