Kevelar Repair

[Kawishiway]

I have done my fair share of body work on cars over the years and do well with bondo... sanding, and can paint with a compressor. I miss my ol home, the west coast at times when "Freezing" wasn't an issue and we were known as "Garage People"... and no..this has nothing to do with "Village People". Freinds and I spent tons of time in our garages fixing things back then.

I have a blem, kevelar canoe in need of some repair. I've gotten suggestions from others, but I thought I'd ask those on this board before I do... as to the initial repair... (Deep gouges, some all the way to the kevelar netting... letting in a "small" amount of water) Who before me has mended a kevelar craft with success, please offer your sage advice.

TIA

k

[wildernessmama]

Most gouges and scratches can be mended by a couple coats of epoxy ,but if it's all the way through to the Kevlar then it may be necessary to use a fiberglass patch. You could patch it on both the inside and outside if necessary. Patch should extend at least 2" beyond the gouge. Once the epoxy has filled the glass and hardened, you can sand the patch and feather the edges by sanding them out. Varnish over the patched edges with exterior grade varnish.

If you have further questions, don't hesitate to e-mail. If you're coming to the UIR, bring it along and we'll take a look.

Wilderness Papa

[Kawishiway]

Wilderness Papa,

I think I could use the therapy provided by a river never visited before. I just might drag along my canoe with my yak... or at least bring along a note pad for some usefull tips if i come. Thanks for the help Wilderness Papa.

k