Repairing A Hole In Your Jon Boat: Easy Steps To Take

Jon boats are often made of aluminium, and holes in aluminium boats can be fixed with epoxy putty or JB Weld. Before applying the putty or weld, it's important to prepare the area by cleaning it with acetone or vinegar, and sanding or grinding to create a smooth surface. For cracks, it's recommended to drill a small hole at each end to prevent the crack from spreading. For larger holes, it's best to weld a patch over the hole, either with rivets or by welding directly onto the boat.

Clean the area with acetone or vinegar

Before repairing a hole in a jon boat, it is important to clean the area with acetone or vinegar. These solvents will remove any dirt, grease, or oil from the surface, ensuring that the repair material will adhere properly.

Acetone is a potent solvent that can quickly remove contaminants from the surface. It evaporates quickly, leaving a clean surface for repair. However, acetone is a known carcinogen and highly flammable, so it should be used sparingly in a well-ventilated area with proper safety equipment, such as gloves and a mask.

Vinegar, specifically white vinegar, is another effective solvent for cleaning jon boats. A mixture of half vinegar and half water can be used to clean and slightly etch the aluminium surface. This vinegar wash is ideal for bare aluminium as it will acid-etch the surface, creating a better bond for the repair material. Vinegar is also a safer chemical to handle than acetone.

When cleaning the area around the hole, it is recommended to use a wire brush or sandpaper to scrub and scuff the surface before applying the solvent. This will help remove any loose paint or debris and create a rough surface for better adhesion. After cleaning with vinegar or acetone, the area should be rinsed with soap and water to remove any residue.

By properly cleaning the area with acetone or vinegar, you can ensure that your repair will be long-lasting and effective.

Drill small holes at each end of the crack to stop it from spreading

If you have a crack in your jon boat, it's important to act quickly to prevent it from spreading. One way to do this is by drilling small holes at each end of the crack. This technique is also used to stop cracks in windshields from spreading.

To do this, take a small drill bit and carefully drill a hole at both ends of the crack. Make sure the drill bit is small enough that it won't widen the crack, but large enough to stop the crack from spreading. This will provide a barrier that prevents the crack from lengthening.

Once you've drilled the holes, you can then proceed with repairing the crack. This might involve using a product like JB Weld, or taking the boat to a welder to get the crack professionally repaired.

It's important to note that drilling holes at the end of a crack is not a permanent solution and should be done in conjunction with another repair method. Additionally, this technique is most effective when the crack is small, so it's best to act as soon as you notice the damage.

Use a product like JB Weld, Marine Weld, or Marine Tex to fill the hole

To repair a hole in a jon boat, you can use products designed for marine repairs, such as JB Weld, Marine Weld, or Marine Tex. These are epoxy compounds that can fill and seal holes, bonding to various surfaces like aluminium, metal, composites, and fibreglass.

Step 1: Clean and Prepare the Surface

Start by cleaning the area around the hole on your jon boat. Remove any dirt, grease, oil, paint, or loose debris. You can use a detergent or degreaser for this step to ensure the surface is thoroughly cleaned. Once clean, use a file or coarse sandpaper to roughen the surface. This step will provide a better repair by creating a slightly uneven surface for the epoxy to grip onto.

Step 2: Prepare the Epoxy

Don gloves to protect your skin. Then, cut or break off the desired amount of epoxy from the tube. For JB Weld and Marine Weld, you will need to dispense equal parts from each of the two tubes onto a disposable surface and mix them thoroughly. Knead the epoxy with your fingers until it becomes a uniform colour.

Step 3: Apply the Epoxy

Using an appropriate tool, apply the mixed epoxy to the hole in an even coat. You can also apply it in a weld bead or extruded shape, depending on the size and shape of the hole. Ensure that you fill the hole completely, removing any air bubbles or pockets.

Step 4: Allow Curing

JB Weld's Marine Weld sets in 4-6 hours at room temperature and is fully cured in 15-24 hours. During this time, keep the boat undisturbed and avoid touching the epoxy. Once cured, the epoxy will be dark grey, and you can shape, tap, file, sand, and even drill it if needed.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

After the epoxy has cured, you can paint or finish the area to match the rest of your jon boat. Your boat is now ready to hit the water again!

Remember to follow the specific instructions on the product you choose and always wear protective gear, like gloves, when working with epoxy compounds.

Apply a patch with rivets for extra support

To repair a hole in a jon boat, you can apply a patch with rivets for extra support. This method is ideal if you can't weld the boat or can't find anyone to do it for you.

First, you need to clean the area around the hole with vinegar or acetone. Then, cut a patch that is a few inches longer and wider than the hole. You can use an aluminium patch or a heavy-duty rubberised glue patch with a second, larger metal and rubber patch. Drill holes in the patch and the boat, line them up, and then rivet the patch to the boat. You can then go over the rivets with JB Weld or marine-grade epoxy putty to seal them. Leave the boat for a minimum of 24 hours to allow the sealant to dry.

Seal the area with a product like Lexel caulk or Gluvit

Once you have cleaned the area, you will need to seal the hole with a product like Lexel caulk or Gluvit. This will ensure that the area is watertight and protected.

Firstly, you need to ensure the area is clean, dry, and free of any debris. Use a small-grit sandpaper to sand the area, being careful not to over-sand as the metal is already thin. You can also use a wire brush to clean the area, removing any dirt, grease, or oil. It is important to wear gloves during this process to ensure that you do not transfer any further oil from your fingers to the repair area. Once you have sanded and cleaned, use a solvent such as acetone to wipe down the area, ensuring it is thoroughly clean.

Next, you will need to apply the Lexel caulk or Gluvit to the area. These products are designed to seal and protect, creating a watertight barrier. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application, ensuring you apply a generous amount to both the inside and outside of the boat. Smooth out the product with a tool or your gloved hand, creating an even layer over the hole and the surrounding area. Allow the product to dry and cure fully before moving on to the next step.

Once the area is fully cured, you can sand it down gently by hand to smooth out any rough spots. Use a fine-grit sandpaper for this step. Finally, you can apply a coat of marine sealant to the area for added protection. This will ensure that your repair is long-lasting and effective.

By following these steps and using a product like Lexel caulk or Gluvit to seal the area, you can effectively repair a hole in your jon boat, restoring it to a watertight and safe condition.

Frequently asked questions