Hull Core question

[AirSniper]

2003 Utopia - I had to replace my bilge pump. The design has changed and I had to replace the base as well. The old base is riveted in, so I drilled the head and removed them easily enough.

The new one is installed with metal screws (and pilot holes). Now I question myself since this area is always in water. My concern is if the core of the fiberglass is made with balsa wood, the wet wood will rot. I've seen this on sailboats.

Would anyone know the makeup of the hull and if I need to be concerned?

 

[Dr Honda]

The little flat table, that your pump was originally mounted to, has wood of some kind in it. I don't think it was Balsa, since weight really isn't an issue with these boats. (as with sail) It's probably just pine.

Regardless... yes... I guess the wood could rot. SO... if it makes you feel better... pull the screws back out... drizzle in some thin CA glue, or thinned out epoxy, to seal the wood in the hole... and remount the pump.


BUT... I'm pretty sure that the small mounting section isn't "Structure". So, even if the wood rotted... the hull integrity will be fine.

 

[AirSniper]

Thanks, makes sense. Difficult to get to, but on the list for off season work.