Hull crack on a 191 W/T

[MikeL]

just noticed an 8" crack in the hull bottom below the front edge of the wind shield. The boat is a 2004 that I bought from the original owner who said that he got it in May of 2005. The engine is a 2005 yamaha 115hp 2 stroke and a call to yamaha confirmed that the warranty was dated May 26 of 2005. Since the hull is a blemish, can anyone give me info on welding up the crack. I am a journeyman welder with 40 yrs. in trade and have played with plastics with some success, but this is a difficult position with plastic. Thank you.

[MolarBoater]

I would take it to the dealer so that they can follow the proper protocol and hence, be responsible if the crack "reoccured". There is a need for drying out the inner hull, possible opening the crack up wider, reinforcing the foam in the area and adding additional plastic reinforcement.

Triumph master repair dealers will know what steps to take as they have "been there and done that" to develop a system of hull repair. At least investigate the cost and procedure before attempting. The etiology of the crack has to be addressed or it will recur.....I've been there already.

Call Triumph factory and discuss with them the history of the boat in an undemanding way and they might surprise you.

Let us know how it all turns out,

Good luck, Molar

[MikeL]

First, the hull is a blemish which means no warranty. Second, my nearest dealer is about 200 miles away. Third, my wife and I fish in tournaments and are doing pretty good and cannot afford to have the boat tied up for the rest of the season. I am trying to contact Triumph, but so far no success.

[MolarBoater]

I fished a season with a crack. Clean the area, lightly sand, clean with alcohol and use Rule Elastomeric to seal. 8" isn't small so keep and eye on it if it gets bigger. Dick at Merritt Marine will know more specifics and you might give him a call. They use a special machine to weld the crack but you may need to get some "material" and plastic welding rods so Dick is your man.

[MikeL]

Thank's Molar for the good advice. I took the boat to the dealer,
Beaver Park in Ohio, and they are doing the repair and I should have the boat back in time for the final qualifying tournament. I have been to Beaver Park Marina during the Grand National tournament series and was very favorably impressed with them so I'm sure they will do a good job.