Common questions

Can you patch a hole in a pontoon?

Can you patch a hole in a pontoon?

Pontoon boats maintain their buoyancy by means of air-filled aluminum pontoons placed beneath the deck. Unfortunately, because of their lighter structure, the aluminum material can be damaged easily. Not to worry, though. Repairing a damaged pontoon is a process that can be done in an afternoon.

Can you use JB weld on a pontoon?

I tried some of the low temp aluminum brazing rods, but there is just too much surface area on the pontoon log for my little torch to heat. The J-B Weld 8272 MarineWeld Marine Epoxy worked great. It mixed well, spread smoothly and evenly (I used a plastic putty knife), and cured without any issues.

How much does it cost to repair a pontoon boat?

Other maintenance work requires specialists, such as a mechanic for motor servicing. Average maintenance costs for a pontoon boat owner with a hands-on approach will range from $600 – $1,200 per year. If you need to store your boat in a marina then you can expect to pay between $1,500 – $2,500.

How do you fix a pin hole in a Tinnie?

A pin hole leak can be temp fixed by simply using super glue and slowly building up the layers to plug the leak. Make sure the surface is clean and not wet. Add a bit and re apply till you are satisfyed. You will e surprised how well it works.

How do you fill screw holes in aluminum?

Cut a piece of aluminum about 1 inch bigger than the hole, using tin snips. Place the patch over the hole, holding it with a steel clamp. Weld the patch onto the aluminum with a propane torch. … Sand the repaired area with sandpaper, starting with coarse-grit and then moving to fine-grit.

How do you seal pin holes in aluminum?

I would suggest cleaning any corrosion around the pinholes and add an epoxy resin adhesive to seal the holes. Larger holes can be repaired using a temporary tape backing. I’d scrape or sand the metal surface around each hole – on both sides – then use a two-part epoxy glue like West System or MAS.

Do Sun Tracker pontoons have drain plugs?

There is a small black rubber drain plug located on the lower front of one of the pontoons. Pry the plug out gently with your fingers.

What can I use to repair a leak in my pontoon boat?

This Kevlar ™ and feldspar ceramic epoxy paste is about as thick as wall mud or cake icing and cures rock hard. Spread it over the damaged / thin area, pushing it into any holes or thin areas. It can be used with fiberglass cloth too for a serious fiberglass epoxy patch or entire hull coating.

What kind of paint to use on aluminum pontoon boat?

When the hull is full of tiny pinholes the fix is a coat of semi-flexible epoxy paint. This is generally the ivory colored CM 15 epoxy paint which has some flex and a long pot life for application. This creamy semi-thick paint forms a sealing ‘blanket’ over the worn aluminum.

What’s the best way to seal a pinhole?

Allow the putty to cure, then sand it to smooth. For areas with pinholes, mix putty with prepared epoxy sealer to a rollable consistency, and then roll and/or brush it to cover the area. Wait for the putty and epoxy to dry. Sand it to roughen the surface slightly.

What causes a pontoon boat to go under?

Eventually, water in the pontoons can cause increased gas consumption due to the extra weight. Steering can also be affected due to the weight distribution becoming uneven. It can also cause the boat to sit too low in the water, and potentially to go under.

When to repair or patch a hole in a boat cover?

If you inspect your boat cover, boat bimini top, or boat canvas regularly (you are doing that right?), then one of these days you’re going to find a hole. Before you run out and drop a bundle on a brand-new cover, consider repairing your existing cover with a patch.

How do you repair a patch on a pontoon boat?

Let the patch dry overnight or for a few hours, then tuck the bladders back into their cases by grabbing the inside of the tip of the case and holding it to the tip of the bladder while you stretch the case back to its full length. Lubricate with water if necessary.

What can I put on an aluminum pontoon boat that is leaking?

For leaking rivets and seams, a coat or two or three of our aluminum filled, moisture cured urethane — ALUTHANE — will often do the trick. This is a very thin coating with seeps into tiny leaks.

Allow the putty to cure, then sand it to smooth. For areas with pinholes, mix putty with prepared epoxy sealer to a rollable consistency, and then roll and/or brush it to cover the area. Wait for the putty and epoxy to dry. Sand it to roughen the surface slightly.

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Ruth Doyle