Fiberglass Damage Around Fuel Vent

[mstrpo]

Unfortunately, I had an impact to the port fuel vent that pushed the side of the vent in, damaging the fiberglass. Here's a pick from the outside. There are more pics in this album from the outside and inside http://www.c-brats.com/modules.php?...ame=gallery&file=index&include=view_album.php

I've read several postings here and online and understand the basic process. Does anyone here have any specific advice on this situation?

Thanks,
Pat

 

[Reelin2]

What is the diameter of the repair? Easiest fix would be to find / make a trim ring, then install over the damaged area. Short of that you will need to grind out the damaged area, glass then match color and finish. Its above the water line, not structural, I’d go with the first option unless you are schooled in fiberglass repair.

 

[ssobol]

Kind of looks like there is some kind of filler there already.

 

[mstrpo]

What is the diameter of the repair? Easiest fix would be to find / make a trim ring, then install over the damaged area. Short of that you will need to grind out the damaged area, glass then match color and finish. Its above the water line, not structural, I’d go with the first option unless you are schooled in fiberglass repair.

You can see the snap in the pic to give you an idea of the diameter. I think you're suggesting to leave the damaged area and cover it with some visually acceptable (and waterproof?) trim since it is not structural and above water. I hadn't thought of that...

 

[mstrpo]

Kind of looks like there is some kind of filler there already.

From the inside, there is a bulge where the fiberglass was pushed in. That might look like filler.

One other consideration is the re-installation of the fuel tank vent fitting. It is mounted like a thru-hull fitting would be such that it compresses the fiberglass with a washer and threaded nut. Whatever the repair is, it should be secure enough for that to be effective.

What about cutting out the damage and then using starboard or making a fiberglass piece that matches the shape. This could then be epoxied into place. Clearly, it would not have the strength of the original but maybe that would be acceptable?

 

[thataway]

What about cutting out the damage and then using starboard or making a fiberglass piece that matches the shape. This could then be epoxied into place. Clearly, it would not have the strength of the original but maybe that would be acceptable?

The problem is that you would have to grind a 12:1 bevel around the edges of the piece and hull, then layer consecutive layers of glass, fill and eventually blend into the hull.

I probably would grind the 6:1 bevel around the inside and outside of the damaged are, laminate that back using 1708 cloth. Fair and gel coat. Get rid of the foam or what ever that is on the top above the hole.