I see a bunch of references to the "Shoreline Method" and no explanation of the actual method.The cockpit "bottom" isn't the "real bottom".
Use search (magnifying glass) and put in "Shoreline method" to repair 'most anything Sunfish.
Was this trailer damage?
Take some pictures?
Referring to the issue described in the second paragraph here (I'm a new user and can't post links.... to... this... forum. Sigh):
/resources/sunfish-age-and-hull-identification.6/
I'll upload photos tomorrow. Working to get a bend out of the trailer frame, and will probably have good lighting after I get the boat back on it.
I'm also building a large shed in the backyard soon, and will turn the shed into a painting booth before I finish the inside. I want to restore a gel-coat on Sunfish, and need a proper clean-room/PPE.
But my hole isn’t all the way through, so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯. Discussing the merits of the method without context (surface crack) seems academic, and I’m just a southern redneck, so considering the input breeze already provided and my inclination to NOT cut a hole completely through the hull unless absolutely necessary, gonna go with awful.That approach is awful, there is no internal backing and an enormous amount of good fiberglass is disappeared with a grinder. The manufacturer recommended and used this Blind Hole Patch method, as serial Sunfish restoration expert Breeze Bender noted.
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The Shoreline method is also a great structural repair.
This Sunfish group has a massive amount of Sunfish specific repair, 20 years plus online, and some folks have been here that long. This is THE Sunfish Forum, it would be beneficial to listen to their seasoned advice.
Good luck to you! I was in your shoes about two years ago. I now have 8 sunfish/sailfish and I’ve learned so much here. I’d be leery of some of those cracks, but what gives me pause more so is your reference to resealing between the top and the top of the cockpit?Thanks @LVW!
That’s helpful to know.
Just got back from a road trip. I’m looking forward to spending some time on the issue this weekend.
Contact @cmac233 (Sunfish Direct) - Chris should help get this right for you.okay, the conversion kit from Sunfish Direct is turning out to be bad news. Bent bolt that’s partially stripped.
Feeling like a bit of a rip-off. I bought the kit cause I’m short on time, but looks like I’m fetching around the hardware store this weekend instead of actually working on the boat.
Ugh.
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If you look from the perspective of the floor, the deck doesn't seem to meet the cockpit everywhere.Good luck to you! I was in your shoes about two years ago. I now have 8 sunfish/sailfish and I’ve learned so much here. I’d be leery of some of those cracks, but what gives me pause more so is your reference to resealing between the top and the top of the cockpit?
Keep asking questions, post lots of pictures, and know that the folks here are very knowledgeable and really are happy to help.
The original screws were slotted screws, but I'd go with stainless, oval-top, Phillips screws of at least one inch. Maybe #8?Oh no!
Okay, looks like the screw that broke off may have saved me.
Although, the new handle does not come with screws.
Would someone kindly let me know what size and kind of screws secure the bow handle? Ye Ole Screw and Bolt drawer in my tool box has failed me this time, hah!
Sunfish Direct is typically a respected organization that is more than accommodating. Please call them and talk about any issues. I’d be shocked if they didn’t make everything right.Contact @cmac233 (Sunfish Direct) - Chris should help get this right for you.