Peeling bilge paint

[ttmott]

It's there a "bandaid" procedure that can be done to at least waterproof the FRP - so as to "buy time" until a proper fix can be done?

I think the issue is what hardware needs to be pulled out/away to access where the delaminating topcoat can be accessed. Regardless, the most appropriate repair is to scrape off to the best extent possible, the flaking gelcoat top coat then sand with 60 grit paper and ensure the existing gelcoat faying edges are blended to the FRP, wipe clean all areas to be coated with a suitable solvent (acetone is usually used), then re-topcoat with Interlux Bilgecoat paint. Remember, when using or handling any low vapor pressure solvent or hazardous material in a confined area use ample ventilation and the appropriate respirator; this may be a process to leave to a qualified company that has the appropriate equipment to do safely.

 

[Bridog]

The FRP beneath the gelcoat is not impervious to water. Leaving it as in the photos can lead to delamination and a loss of structural integrety. I am pretty sure what we see here is a product of a cold bond between the FRP and the gelcoat where, over time, the gelcoat flakes off. I think this is a latent mfg. defect that surfaces months or more after the boat leaves the factory and I feel certain Sea Ray would have repaired it had they seen it. Once in the hands of the dealers, it is up to the owner and the dealer to get approval from Sea Ray and do the repair. Why nothing was done on this particuar boat is most likely due to an inexperienced owner and why his dealer didn't catch it is another question altogether.

I had something similiar starting in my 300DA. Nothing near this bad. Searay and my dealer MM took care of it. http://www.clubsearay.com/index.php?threads/help-whats-going-on-in-my-engine-compartment.43757/

 

[mjoplin]

Same issue on my 2005 280DA. Flaking in multiple places in the engine compartment.

 

[kysearay]

Just found this thread and I am having this issue in my '05 420 bilge Small places but I a down to the glass in areas and from the sound of these replys, I will need to sand and then clean and paint with interlux bilge paint - OH JOY! I wonder where Sea Ray would be on this?
chris

 

[M Prod]

So this is happening in my bilge. Just at the very lowest point where rain water collects at times. I saw it beginning last summer, but it’s spreading now. So much so that I’m worried. I’m going to have to get in there and fix it. Biggest areas are directly between my 8.1’s at the lowest point, so it’s going to be a heck of a time getting to it. I’ll post photos of the repair once I get into it.

 

[bajturner]

I've seen small amounts of this on all three of my Sea Rays. On my current boat it's just in the bottom of the aft bilge in the engine room.

 

[M Prod]

So what's the best tool to really get in there and scrape this away? Before sanding? I've got pretty significant peeling and bubbling down low between the two engines.

 

[ttmott]

So what's the best tool to really get in there and scrape this away? Before sanding? I've got pretty significant peeling and bubbling down low between the two engines.

These two tools (Dynabrade belt sander and Milwakee Multi-Tool are the best for that difficult job from my exp:

 

[M Prod]

These two tools (Dynabrade and Milwakee Multi-Tool are the best for that difficult job from my exp:

Thank you ..seems like a good investment. Anything to make this job a little less difficult.

 

[M Prod]

These two tools (Dynabrade belt sander and Milwakee Multi-Tool are the best for that difficult job from my exp:

Yikes that Dynabrade belt sander is $800. Maybe something like this will work just as well?

 

[Sublimetime]

How about a sanding sponge on the end of a sheetrock sanding pole with the swivel head. You can cut the pole down to a comfortable usable length, and work it around. Then get a 3 inch roller, the type that the diameter is only one inch, and a long arm for that as well.

 

[ttmott]

Yikes that Dynabrade belt sander is $800. Maybe something like this will work just as well?

View attachment 83520

Eastwood has some pretty good tools; it'll probably get you through the ordeal. I had a couple of cheap ones in the shop and couldn't keep the belts on them then in frustration bit the bullet on the Dynabrade which is a production tool. My theory of life is - neverundertakeaprojectunlessitentailstheacquisitionofanewtool

 

[kysearay]

Yeah happening to my 420 and as mentioned before in the lowest portion of the bilge!! ARRRGGGHHH!!!!

 

[duffman04]

Good revival of the thread. I have one area in my bilge that needs this attention. Luckily, it is (fairly) easy to access. Watching for advice as this will be a next winter problem...

 

[Ed Bacon]

Any chance of using an underwater epoxy on the peeled areas?

 

[suss1173]

Thank you ..seems like a good investment. Anything to make this job a little less difficult.

Did you end up tackling this project. If so how did the Eastwood tool hold up, was it helpful, and any other advice you can offer beyond what’s been mentioned above.
Thanks in advance.

 

[M Prod]

Did you end up tackling this project. If so how did the Eastwood tool hold up, was it helpful, and any other advice you can offer beyond what’s been mentioned above.
Thanks in advance.

Nope ..time has not been on my side as of late and it hasn't gotten any worse. It's high on the list of things to get to eventually though.

 

[rlynch03]

Anyone have a good resource to tint the Interlux Bilgecoat paint? West Marine only sells White or Gray. My bilge is a offwhite...

 

[ttmott]

Anyone have a good resource to tint the Interlux Bilgecoat paint? West Marine only sells White or Gray. My bilge is a offwhite...

View attachment 142961

I'd call Interlux - But Ooooo - this was a survey finding on my boat. I ended up replaced all of the hydraulic steering hoses. Insurance wanted every "A" and "B" finding corrected. I can get you the info on the fittings and hose when you get ready.

 

[rlynch03]

I'd call Interlux - But Ooooo - this was a survey finding on my boat. I ended up replaced all of the hydraulic steering hoses. Insurance wanted every "A" and "B" finding corrected. I can get you the info on the fittings and hose when you get ready.
View attachment 142962

Not sure if I am ready (smile) but please send...