Phenolic Resin Hammer

[Saltonsails]

I've read that you can use one of these hammers to tap the fiberglass around chain plates and engine mounts to determine if there is rot underneath.

The problem I have is where to find this hammer and is it really necessary for a preliminary inspection.

In other words, why can't I just tap the fiberglass with my knuckle (therefore no damage) and just listen to the result. A dull thud would indicate rot or moisture underneath, whereas a crisp report would indicate all is well.

The only reason I'm posting this is because I'm not able to find one of the hammers.

Is anyone able to help me out on this?

Thanks.

[Faster]

I think any plastic/non metallic hammer will do. I've also used a screwdriver handle as an impromptu 'sounding' tool.

Your knuckle will not thank you for using it, and it's likely only to 'detect' gross areas of problems.

Also keep in mind (as an amateur) that you'll 'hear' different sounds in way of bulkhead tabbing and other reinforced areas under-deck.

But having a gentle tap around can certainly allow you to eliminate a boat with major problems in a hurry.

[SloopJonB]

Originally Posted by Saltonsails

I've read that you can use one of these hammers to tap the fiberglass around chain plates and engine mounts to determine if there is rot underneath.

The problem I have is where to find this hammer and is it really necessary for a preliminary inspection.

In other words, why can't I just tap the fiberglass with my knuckle (therefore no damage) and just listen to the result. A dull thud would indicate rot or moisture underneath, whereas a crisp report would indicate all is well.

The only reason I'm posting this is because I'm not able to find one of the hammers.

Is anyone able to help me out on this?

Thanks.

Decent tool stores should have them. Rapping with your knuckles won't work on all but the thinnest glass. I found this out the hard way. You can use a brass hammer but it can leave marks if you're not careful - that's the reason for phenolic.

[Saltonsails]

Thanks guy's.

Hey Faster, I looked at Metonia. Going to need a lot of TLC and a high time engine.

Still looking.

[denverd0n]

I use something like one of these...

Amazon.com: Pro-Mark Future Pro Discovery Series Mallets Very Hard White Phenolic Fpp10: Musical Instruments

I find that brokers and owners get much less agitated when you tap-tap-tap with a harmless looking little mallet like this than when you are whacking away at their boat with a hammer.

(I know, you're not really "whacking away," but that is what it looks like to them.)

[Faster]

Originally Posted by Saltonsails

Hey Faster, I looked at Metonia. Going to need a lot of TLC and a high time engine.

Still looking.

Yeah, not surprised at that. If you're willing to pay a bit of a premium price I can dig up the contact info for the fellow at Heather Civic.. That one was, at least pre-survey, near immaculate.

[Saltonsails]

Thanks Faster, but at this point I think I will just keep kicking tires. The longer I wait, the more I have to put down. The more I can put down the easier it is to justify to my better half.

I'm not in a real hurry to have a boat this year unless it's a heck of a deal. The more boat's I look at the more knowledge I gain. Thus the more I will know, when the right one comes along.

Thanks for the offer though, I may take you up on it at some point in the future but not right now.

However, I hope you don't mind me tugging on your experience and knowledge to guide me through this process and in doing so you help me to make an informed decision when the time comes.

Cheer's....

[chrisncate]

Pick up a stethoscope with a probe on the end from Harbor Freight (a discount tool outlet), and scale your tapping way way down. Same effect, and no marks no matter what you use to tap. Better/more precise audio feedback as well.

EDIT: Plus you'll look super cool doing it.. wear a white lab coat for the full effect..