Checks in hull

[DragonFly]

I've been lerking a bit lately and busy getting the deck taken off which is now complete. However the whole time I've been ripping the teak deck up I can't help but get more concerned about the checks in the hull just above the deck. They are no more than 1/16 wide but at some places the depth can be up to an inch and can run 1/4 of the length of the boat.

I also have some checks in the transom, in the cold molded strip planking. At the keel I have also found some checking, not sure the extent here yet. The keel was poorly wrapped in fiberglass but not much epoxy.

What are my options? How concerned should I be. I'm close to being um, overly worried. :eek:

I'll try to get some pictures tomorrow.

[ 07-12-2002, 11:06 PM: Message edited by: DragonFly ]

[DragonFly]

Finally got some pictures. Here are a shot of the bow with the deepest crack. Hopefully someone will have some experience here they can share.

I've not found much in the threads doing a search. Mostly I have heard using epoxy is a bad idea. Does that mean the only other option is tearing out the peices with cracks and replacing with new?

http://www.crablouie.com/dragonfly/gallery/deck.rm/115-1533_IMG.JPG

http://www.crablouie.com/dragonfly/gallery/deck.rm/115-1568_IMG.JPG

[Adam C]

Is that checking or is it a previously glued scarf coming open?

In any case, you need to sand down or strip that bulwark, fill the check with epoxy, or maybe an epoxied spline if it's real deep and move on.

I had checking like that on my boat in the cabin sides. It seems the steel bolts holding the two pieces together corroded, expanded, and started prying apart the scarfed joint. No big deal in your situation.

[ 07-15-2002, 11:51 AM: Message edited by: Adam C ]