Large hole in bottom of hull from trailer. Any recommendations on best way to fix?

[CatManMN]

One of the bunks on my trailer broke somehow, and the metal support piece forced its way through the bottom of the hull. I have attached some pictures of the damage, and am looking for some recommendations on the best way to fix it. Is this something that I could fix myself, or should I be making an insurance claim and bringing it to a body shop? Also, if I bring it to a body shop, is this something that any reputable body shop could fix, or do I need to bring it to somewhere that specializes in boat repair?

Thanks in advance for the help, I really appreciate it.

 

[Coastiejoe]

The damage is substantial enough that I would contact your insurance company. Pay your $500 deductible and let a professional handle it.

The repair will take MANY steps and substantial prep. Access from the inside will likely be required.

Not saying you can't fix it, but you will spend most of your deductible in product let alone your time.

If a professional fixes it, it will be painter to match and gel coated.


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[thomps33]

I agree with Coastie. Let a pro fix it that has a good reputation for fixing fiberglass boats. That is structural damage and not an easy superficial repair. File an insurance claim because that will not be a cheap repair.

I would also try to get that boat lifted up and the bunk fixed before towing it anywhere to prevent more damage.

 

[Coastiejoe]

You can jack the boat up yourself. Place a jack on the trailer and put a wide board on the ridge of the boat and jack it up. Fix the bunk being careful not to put your hands in a place where they can get hurt if the jack slips. I would do it laying on the ground as other than scarring you, you should not get hurt in the event of an event..

 

[Red Rocket]

This is upsetting and its not even my boat!

I agree 100% with Joe....call your insurance company and claim it. I had 2 spots fixed that were the size of quarters on my hull where I bumped something and it cost me $350 to get it fixed. The damage to your boat is serious and I put money on it that it would cost well over $1000

 

[lilb93]

I would hate to rain on your parade, Your insurance company will deny the claim.
They will say improper maintenance. The exact same thing happened to me years ago. Geico said I failed to check and do proper maintenance on the trailer. My boat was a 1999 challenger 1800. I did fix it my self you will need many layers of mat to build it up. If you do it yourself don't just put 1 glob of mat in. I put about 15 layers and .150 of gelcoat. You would never know it was fixed.

 

[Red Rocket]

I would hate to rain on your parade, Your insurance company will deny the claim.
They will say improper maintenance.

Fix the bunk as mentioned above and then make the claim :ack:

 

[thomps33]

^^^ Only if you have no morals and don't mind committing a felony...

 

[rcguy]

Put in an insurance claim, the worst that can happen is they deny the claim. I go out mostly in the Gulf which of course is salt water. Funny, I just got my bunks replaced last Wednesday. One was cracked in the middle but didn't do any damage to the hull. I guess I got lucky. Bunks with carpet cost $50 apiece, new hardware about $10.00 and $60.00 labor. Total bill $170.00 plus tax. Also had the bearings repacked with new seals and replaced the leaf springs. They rebuilt the axle sanded and repainted it with salt water resistant paint. Also got two new tires. That was expensive but now I have an almost new trailer. So now I'm ready for the Florida Keys.

 

[Nosnibor]

Sorry to see this happen. For future reference how would someone go about checking this with a boat on the trailer?

 

[thomps33]

Looks like the nut came off the bolt holding on the bracket. Just a periodic tightening would do it. Some thread locker would help prevent this too.

 

[rcguy]

Sorry to see this happen. For future reference how would someone go about checking this with a boat on the trailer?

I check my trailer after I launch the boat and park the truck and trailer. Only takes a few minutes to check if all is OK.

 

[go_panthers]

I check my trailer after I launch the boat and park the truck and trailer. Only takes a few minutes to check if all is OK.

Me, too. I just assumed everybody did. I check the bunks to sis if they move or one has broken and do a visual check of the brakes (lines, rotors). Just habit.

The last time I replaced the bunk carpeting, I put the boat in and let the family run around on the lake while I replaced the carpet. 30 minute job. Not sure how I would have done it otherwise.


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[rcguy]

Me, too. I just assumed everybody did. I check the bunks to sis if they move or one has broken and do a visual check of the brakes (lines, rotors). Just habit.

The last time I replaced the bunk carpeting, I put the boat in and let the family run around on the lake while I replaced the carpet. 30 minute job. Not sure how I would have done it otherwise.


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Same here...it's just common sense. I launched the boat last Wednesday and moved the boat to a dock at the marina and left my girlfriend there to watch the boat and get some sun. Then I drove my trailer to the trailer repair shop because I made prior arrangements for the repairs. They knew I was coming and had all the parts. Left the trailer there and my girlfriend and I enjoyed a day on the Homossasa River and Springs. Picked my trailer late in the afternoon and had a great day all around except for paying the bill. Ready for the "Florida Keys" with almost a new trailer.