Spider cracks

[jahoward1]

I was washing my boat earlier today when I noticed a spider crack on my boat. The crack is located above the Aquasport emblem. It runs from on top of the gunnel. It starts around the area of the cleat located located above the emblem and runs and ends near a small connector that I'm pretty sure was used to secure a bimini at one time. I'm not panicking but from what I've read, this could become a serious problem. I'm concerned that the crack will grow.

In an earlier post, I posted a picture of some small cracks or holes in the fiberglass of the boat. I was planning to try that repair myself but this one looks more complicated. What do you guys think? Should I take this to a professional? The top pic shows location and the bottom pic the actual crack but not all of it--I did my best trying to capture the crack. Thanks in advance.

James H

[kraw2]

I would take it to a professional. The cracks have to be dug out in a "V" shape, cleaned with acetone, and new gel coat applied. Also around the area will need to be sanded, cleaned and sprayed the same time the cracks are sprayed to help blend the color of the repair. That's where you need a pro to match the gel coat b/c it's old and faded.

I would hold out as long as you can so you can get the entire boat done at one time.

[jahoward1]

kraw2

Thanks for the reply.  When no one answered on this site, I posted the same question with pics on thehulltruth.  A few guys replied and of those, some said, no problem and some said, take it to a professional--I think I'll take her to a professional.  However, I might have to wait a little bit.  My very old central air unit for my house went bye bye so the boat has to take a step back.  I really don't know who in this area would be considered a professional for fiberglass/gelcoat repair but I'll ask my mechanic.  As always, Thanks again.

James H