As mentioned in my other posts, I purchased a sunfish not too long ago for $100CD with the trailer, so now I am going to start bringing it back to life. I have no experienced with boats, sailing or anything of this sort. But wanted to start sailing on a budget, so I purchased this boat. Any advice would be appreciated.
I already purchased some 3m 5200 marine adhesive/caulk.. and 2 6" inspection ports, which will be installed as soon as I the correct hole saw next weekend.
All other hardware for the boat came with it, including the rudder, daggerboard and mast.
As visible in the pics, I want to fix the patch work on the hull, dry out the boat, and also make fix the crack in the bottom.
Any advice or comments would be much appreciated as I have no clue what I've gotten myself into. Thank you
Link to Pics.
http://picasaweb.google.com/MrGoodOne/Boat05182008?authkey=Gv1sRgCMvHq-7f_d6rdQ&feat=directlink
As mentioned in my other posts, I purchased a sunfish not too long ago for $100CD with the trailer
I have no experience with boats, sailing or anything of this sort. But wanted to start sailing on a budget, so I purchased this boat.
As visible in the pics, I want to fix the patch work on the hull, dry out the boat, and also fix the crack in the bottom.
BTW – your serial number, 60859, shows the boat is a 1969. Check out the Time Line in the NEW TSF Knowledge Base for more details.
http://kb.sunfishforum.com/images/history/timeline.pdf
I have a bogus list.
Figured as much ... had to give you a bit of a hard time about it.
Originally Posted by Minifish
I have a bogus list.
Thank you for your advice everyone.
In regards to what Nightsailor said, I have already installed one 6" port on the deck, I wish I had read this post earlier since I would have known that I have a "rare" blue deck boat.
One thing though, the deck seems to have paint chips here and there, should I paint over it? and how and what kind of paint would I use? Please keep in mind that I'm on a budget but want to get the job done right at the same time...
What process would I use to fix the crack in the bottom? I am not familiar with working with fiberglass, even though I've read numerous posts, and seen various video's. I am still not very clear. Could I use a fiberglass patch kit? and if so then what kind? I saw a kit by 3m called. "3M Bondo auto & Marine repair kit" or something similiar to that.
Thank you everyone for the help. and thanks for the great comments.
I dont really think they are 'rare' It is just the older year of boats. So I wouldnt be too concerned
http://sites.google.com/site/picturesofsunfishproject/
As you have now seen, the solid color decks of green, red, blue, and yellow were the norm for quite a few years (1960 thru 1971) Sorry if that’s a disappointment, the colors are a nice visual change from the white and pastels of later years, but as you are soon to find out, they get dog-gone hot in the sun.I wish I had read this post earlier since I would have known that I have a "rare" blue deck boat.
I see what you are saying there does seem to be a coat of paint over the original gelcoat (see picture). For now that’s a cosmetic item that would be better placed low on your list of things to do…, considering your need to stay on a budget and the higher priority repairs for seaworthiness.One thing though, the deck seems to have paint chips here and there, should I paint over it?
Keep in mind, blogs, posts, and video clips are supplements to help you get through learning curve elements not easily grasped the first time around. They are not, however, a substitute for a detailed text and the material manufacturer’s instructions on repairs and material behaviors. And, none of it can substitute for hands-on practice. I recommend you grab a scrap of 1/8” masonite or something equivalent and patch a 2” hole in it for your first attempt. With this sort of experience under your belt you’ll stand a much greater chance at success with the boat on the first go.What process would I use to fix the crack in the bottom? I am not familiar with working with fiberglass, even though I've read numerous posts, and seen various video's. I am still not very clear.
What process would I use to fix the crack in the bottom? I am not familiar with working with fiberglass, even though I've read numerous posts, and seen various video's. I am still not very clear.
Did you locate a fiberglass outlet with experienced personnel who can help guide your purchase choices?
Sometimes with Google you have to be creative ... just look at all the different terms to search on ... Polyester Resin; Composite; Boat Repair; Fiberglass Repair; Fiberglass Supplies. . .I did a search for fiberglass outlet in london
The 1972 Sunfish I'm working on has a red deck. Apparently the colored gelcoat is more resistant to UV than the plain white. I'm working on the boat tomorrow, maybe I'll post some pictures.I've never seen a red deck, although I have seen green.