Gelcoat cracks on hull

fconmass · **Joined:** Sun Jul 17, 2011 9:01 am **Posts:** 1

I am considering purchasing a 2001 Vista 268. During the survey it was discovered that the hull below the waterline has multiple cracks in the gelcoat. Moisture readings are 25%+/- all long the hull and transom below the waterline and 5%+/- above the waterline. A barrier coating I know will fic this. My concern is why it is like this in the first place. I have been told 2 possibilities. The gelcoat was put on either too thick or allowwd to dry to quickly during the manucature process or the hull flexes too much forthe weight of the boat. Does anyone have an opion on this. Also, can anyone recommend a good epoxy for the barrier coating process?

askieffer · **Posted:** Sun Jul 17, 2011 2:11 pm

Not sure if it helps but I bought a 2008 sl242 factory demo and discovered the same thing. Had a couple local guys advise to take it back. They said it was not a safety issue, just cosmetic but even if it was repaired it would come back. The dealer eventually agreed and swapped the boat for a 2009 with more features, I guess it worked out in the end.

ric · **Posted:** Sun Jul 17, 2011 3:25 pm

Fiberglass will always have some moisture in it below the water line and a boat that spends time in the water should have a barrier coat/bottom paint. If it's a cheap deal that's worth a bit of work, I'd dry it out, do above said paint, and never worry about it again. If it doesn't have any blisters or anything generally that means it's not damaged.

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Gelcoat cracks on hull

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