The Never Ending Search For Storage

[dbruce85]

In an attempt to make a 26 ft. boat more cruising comfortable, I plan to utilize some of the unused space under the V Berth for easily accessable storage.
In the area I plan to use sits the intake for the head.
It is a thru hull with a nut (ball valve screwed on). From what I have read it should be replaced with a flanged seacock anyway.
I am considering moving the intake into the port dinette locker.
I would not like the idea of things sliding around and hitting an intake.
How big of a deal is fixing the hole it will leave.
I do have a copy of Don Casey's Sailboat Maintenance Manual as well as the West Marine Fiberglass Boat Repair & Maintenance book.
I have read both, it does not sound like too hard of a project, just do it right !
Am I missing something, should I be concerned about fixing the hole myself.
I have done limited fiberglass work, but I am certainly not an expert.
I would appreciate some advise.
Thanks in advance,
David

[sailingdog]

Not a big deal to repair, especially if you have good access to both sides. You'll want to grind a 12:1 bevel on both sides and repair it from both sides, as this is a stronger repair than if you just do it from one side. I'd also highly recommend using epoxy resin, as it has greater secondary (adhesive) bonding strength than polyester or vinylester resin.

[themzel]

Just a thought. Installing a real thru-hull with a screw in plug will be very secure even if things are bouncing around it. Easier than fiberglassing a patch. Aslo, some day you might need it.

[sailingdog]

Generally not a good idea to have a plugged through hull in a cabinet... since things like electrolytic corrosion can cause them to fail... leaving you with some problems, especially if the locker or space the through-hull is located in is filled with stuff.

Originally Posted by themzel

Just a thought. Installing a real thru-hull with a screw in plug will be very secure even if things are bouncing around it. Easier than fiberglassing a patch. Aslo, some day you might need it.

[dbruce85]

Thanks for the advice.
One question, when using epoxy resin to wet out the cloth, should it be thickened or should I use unthickened epoxy