Quick Question...

[topgun]

What is a good way to fill the gap between the top little stern part you cut off and the top larger half? I was thinking of making a little fiberglass lip under one of the halves and just filling the gap with resin then sanding it. Im sure it would give it more strength too... any suggestions?
Thanks,
Tom Kudla

[robse]

Hi, TopGun

I think that sounds

[color=#000000]Hi, TopGun

I think that sounds right. I've worked alot with Arldite now, and it's pretty easy once you get a little practice. Just remember]

[thordesign]

Use #23 Thixotropic silica and

Use #23 Thixotropic silica and milled fiber to fill in the gap with a long cure resin such as Fibreglast #88/87 resin system. Wipe a thin coat of vaseline on the forward section to be removed both top & bottom. Run a piece of masking tape underneath the aft portion that is to support the filler while it is curing. It acts as a shelf to hold any resin up while it is curing to ensure the gap is filled properly. Mix an equal part of 1/2 catalyzed resin with 1/4 Milled fibers and 1/4 thixotropic silica(cabosil). Mix thoroughly until the mix thickens up to the consisitency of toothpaste. Hold some up on the bottom of a popsicle stick. If it drips add more silica.

Trowel the thickened mixture on top of the masking tape on the hull and slide the forward portion of the hull in place. Wipe off any gross excess with a rag moistened with acetone. Let cure over night.

Come back the next morning and gently pop it loose. Remove your tape and sand down any goobers that are hanging loose or on top of the hull.

You will have an almost invisible seam!

You can get the resin-hardener system 88/87, milled fiber, & #23 Silica at www.fibreglast.com. They do sell in small quantities.

I have used their resins for a long time and find them superior.

[tom spettel]

Matt.. can it be done

Matt.. can it be done using west systems epoxy as well?
Tom

[thordesign]

Yes. West systems resins are

Yes. West systems resins are a bit more viscous so you will need to reduce the amount of silica and milled fiber.