These items should be checked when moored. The bilge should be pumped and dry as possible. Operate
the boat under sail on both tacks and under power. Have someone competent go below and check all the
list of Items again.
Some leaks seem to defy every known method of detection. However, do not try to remove major
component before checking with the factory. More damage can be done and the leak still may not be
found. If you have done a thorough lob of checking and cannot find the leak, write the factory describing
the nature of the leak.
One last word, underwater leaks can sometimes be found by pulling the boat from the water and filling the
bilge with water. Dry off the hull below the waterline. Watch closely for any seepage. The leak may be
small under these circumstances because of less pressure and strain.
SUGGESTED METHODS OF REPAIR: Silicone sealer is the best method of sealing leaks around fillings
and screws. It’s easy to use and does an excellent lob. Two companies manufacture the product - Dow
Corning and General Electric.
For seeps and weeps above or below the waterline, epoxy sealers work well. One such product is Glu-Vit,
made by Travaco Lab Inc., 345 Eastern Avenue, Chelsea, Mass. 02150 Follow the directions on the can.
This type of product is good if you have a leak in an area but can’t pin point It exactly. Sand any paint off
and brush the epoxy over the whole area.
FILLERS: PUTTY/PASTE; These are good for filling voids or gouges in fiberglass. They can also be used
to bond items to fiberglass. There are many such products on the market, two of which are:
Epotex made by: H. B. Fred Kuhls Inc.
100 Holiday St.
Jersey City. N.J.
Formula 27 Fibre Glass Evercoat Inc.
6600 Cornell Rd.
Cincinnati, Ohio 45242.
Page 1
5