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Author Topic: Correct tool for cutting into Fiberglass Deck  (Read 174 times)

October 12, 2024, 10:58:50 AM
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rhtrades

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Correct tool for cutting into Fiberglass Deck
« on: October 12, 2024, 10:58:50 AM »
Does anyone have a recommendation on the best cutting tool(s) and blades to cut into Fiberglass non-skid Deck?  (I am replacing my deck core). 
Would an angle grinder work well?
Thanks

October 12, 2024, 01:00:01 PM
Reply #1

RickK

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Re: Correct tool for cutting into Fiberglass Deck
« Reply #1 on: October 12, 2024, 01:00:01 PM »
Most people use a skil saw and slide along the bottom of the liner. It leaves about 1.5-2" lip all around. Angle grinder will get the job done but you'll be all over the place with it.
Rick
1971 "170" with 115 Johnson (It's usable but not 100% finished)

1992 230 Explorer with 250 Yamaha

October 14, 2024, 10:26:03 AM
Reply #2

rhtrades

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Re: Correct tool for cutting into Fiberglass Deck
« Reply #2 on: October 14, 2024, 10:26:03 AM »
Thanks Rick.  And would a metal cutting blade work well?    Also, do you have any recommendations on a brand of gel coat?   

October 14, 2024, 12:02:18 PM
Reply #3

RickK

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Re: Correct tool for cutting into Fiberglass Deck
« Reply #3 on: October 14, 2024, 12:02:18 PM »
I don't know how a metal cutting blade would do. Any blade you cut fiberglass with is going to get trashed. The deck is mostly balsa wood with glass on both sides, so a wood cutting blade is what I used. I bought my gelcoat at a local supplier, it came in a white 5 gal pail. Not sure it had anything but their store name on it since they buy in bigger qty and break it down into smaller qty.
Rick
1971 "170" with 115 Johnson (It's usable but not 100% finished)

1992 230 Explorer with 250 Yamaha

October 14, 2024, 01:57:28 PM
Reply #4

rhtrades

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Re: Correct tool for cutting into Fiberglass Deck
« Reply #4 on: October 14, 2024, 01:57:28 PM »
Thanks Rick. 

October 18, 2024, 11:34:53 AM
Reply #5

msteinkampf

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Re: Correct tool for cutting into Fiberglass Deck
« Reply #5 on: October 18, 2024, 11:34:53 AM »
I tried a variety of oscillating blades, but none of them cut very effectively. I wound up using a 4.5 inch diamond blade for my angle grinder. Dewalt DW4701.  It’s marketed for cutting concrete. I cut out my entire deck, and it didn’t seem to dull the blade at all.

Expect a lot of dust.

m
1990 Boston Whaler Montauk 17 with 1991 Mercury 90 HP
1995 Aquasport Explorer 245 with twin 1995 Yamaha Salt Water Series 150 HP

Today at 12:30:27 PM
Reply #6

rhtrades

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Re: Correct tool for cutting into Fiberglass Deck
« Reply #6 on: Today at 12:30:27 PM »
Thanks M.  What thickness core did you use? 

 


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