trailer loading mishap - hull damage

[Jono]

I have a drive on trailer, and came in a little too hot, and a little off center. I bounced off what i thought was the bunk, but maybe hit the trailer frame.


The pic makes it look a little more knarly than it is. Its about the size of an index finger. Its right on the midline going up towards the nose. It would be below the waterline. I don't know how thick gel is, but the abrasion appears to be maybe 1 - 2mm deep. It appears that the gel was ripped off along with whatever that blue underlayment is. The glass is not chunked at all.
Obviously I'm going to get this fixed ASAP, but if i can't get anyone around for a week, do you think it would be wise to run the boat once or twice like this?
I've always hated that drive on trailer, and I thought this day may come sometime.

[mastercard]

As long as there isn't a hole in the fiberglass it wont be a problem. I did the same thing and I've been driving boats onto traliers for 15 years. I'm gonna install a keel guard after I get my gel coat repaired. (winter project)

[dawn]

I would throw some 3M 5200 marine sealant on it till you get it fixed.

[MIskier]

DO NOT put 5200 sealant on that before you have it repaired! That will give problems to whomever you take the boat to have the gel repaired. If youre only going to be using it a couple of times and not leaving it in the water afterwards you will be just fine.

[AirTool]

DO NOT put 5200 sealant on that before you have it repaired! That will give problems to whomever you take the boat to have the gel repaired. If youre only going to be using it a couple of times and not leaving it in the water afterwards you will be just fine.

AGREE on the 5200...don't do it. However, You could make a "crappy" gel repair with a gel kit from the marine store then have the pro sand it out. If you do that, mix up a different color so the pro will know how much to gouge out.

[Jono]

good tips, thanks