Repairing A Pelican Boat: A Comprehensive Guide

Owning a boat is a dream for many, but it also comes with maintenance and repair work. Pelican boats, for example, are known for their durability, but they can still be damaged and need repairs. Whether it's a kayak, pedal boat, or a small fishing boat, knowing how to fix common issues is essential for boat owners. In this guide, we will explore the steps to repair a Pelican boat and get it back on the water in no time. From identifying the problem to gathering the right tools and materials, we will cover everything you need to know to confidently tackle the repair process. So, whether your Pelican boat has a small leak or a more serious issue, stay tuned as we dive into the world of boat repair and restoration!

How to Repair a Pelican Boat

Sand the edges and the patch

To repair a Pelican boat, you will need to sand the edges of the crack or hole and the kayak patch. This process will make the surface even and smooth, preparing it for the heating stage. Here is a detailed guide on how to do this effectively:

Start by acquiring suitable sandpaper for the task. It is important to choose sandpaper that is appropriate for smoothing plastic surfaces. Once you have the correct sandpaper, begin sanding the edges of the crack or hole. Take your time and try to create an even and smooth finish. Ensure that you cover the entire perimeter of the affected area. The goal is to create a consistent surface that will facilitate the subsequent repair steps.

After addressing the edges, it is now time to focus on the kayak patch itself. Sand the patch, paying particular attention to its sides. This step is crucial as it will help the patch adhere securely to the plastic of your kayak or canoe. Remember to apply gentle and consistent pressure when sanding to achieve the desired smoothness without causing any damage.

Once you have finished sanding both the edges and the patch, take a moment to inspect your work. Run your fingers over the sanded areas to ensure they feel smooth to the touch. Check for any rough spots or uneven patches and address them accordingly. If necessary, you can use a finer grit sandpaper to refine the finish and ensure optimal adhesion for the next steps in the repair process.

It is important to wear protective gear during the sanding process. Consider using gloves and eye protection to safeguard your hands and eyes from any debris or dust generated during sanding. Additionally, try to work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to avoid inhaling any particles.

By following these detailed instructions, you will effectively sand the edges and the patch of your Pelican boat, setting the foundation for a seamless and durable repair. Remember to take your time, work carefully, and prioritize your safety throughout the process.

Drill through the crack ends

Drilling through the crack ends is an important step in repairing a cracked Pelican boat. This technique is known as "WhaleyWelding", named after John Whaley, who pioneered this method to repair cracks in kayaks. Drilling at both ends of a crack is necessary to prevent the crack from extending further.

When drilling the crack ends, it is critical to ensure that the holes are precisely centred on the crack. Off-centred drilling will cause the crack to 'jump around' the hole, undoing your work. Therefore, carefully select a small drill bit and drill out both ends of the crack. The crack should then stop extending.

After drilling, the next step is to prepare the patch area. Use sandpaper to roughen the area surrounding the crack on the inside of the boat. Once the surface is roughened, wipe down the area with a damp cloth to ensure it is clean.

Following this, you can move on to the next step of heating the patch area. Use a hair dryer or a heat gun to heat the area around the crack. The plastic should become hot enough that you cannot hold your fingers against it for more than a few seconds. Be careful not to overheat the plastic, as this can cause a large hole to appear or even set off the smoke alarm.

The drilling process is crucial in stopping the crack from spreading and providing a solid base for the subsequent repair steps.

Heat the kayak and patch

Once you've prepared your kayak for repair, it's time to start the process of heating the kayak and patch. This step requires caution as you will be working with high temperatures. Make sure you are wearing hand gloves to protect your hands from burns. You will need a heat gun or a torch for this step. Take the pliers and use them to hold the patch. Now, start applying heat to the patch until it becomes droopy. You want the plastic to soften and become pliable. The kayak plastic may change colour during this process, turning yellow or white. Ensure that both the kayak and the patch are hot and close to melting.

Now it's time to attach the patch to the kayak. With your gloves on, press the hot patch against the damaged area of the kayak. Work quickly as you want both the kayak and the patch to be hot enough to melt together and form a tight seal. Hold the patch in place until the sides start to melt and change colour. This will ensure that the edges of the patch stick firmly to the kayak.

The next step is to smooth out the patch. Apply heat to a small area of the patch, around four square inches, and use a spoon or putty knife to press it against the kayak. This will help create a smoother surface. Work in small areas as the plastic cools down quickly. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as you don't want to bend the kayak.

Finally, place your kayak on a stable surface and pour water on the repaired area. If needed, use the heat torch to make any final adjustments. Once you are satisfied, sand the kayak with sandpaper to give it a smooth, professional finish.

Attach the patch

Now that you have heated the kayak and patch, it's time to attach the patch to the crack or hole. This step requires quick action, so be prepared. Put on your gloves and hold the hot patch firmly. Press it against the droopy crack or hole area of the kayak or plastic boat. You will feel the heat through your gloves, so be careful.

The key to a perfect attachment is speed. Work quickly to ensure the patch is properly attached to your Pelican canoe. Keep the boat heated until the sides of the patch begin to melt and change colour. Be cautious not to create another hole with the heat torch. This technique will ensure the edges of the patch mould around the kayak, creating a tight hold.

If you are using self-adhesives, fibre tapes, cloth, or duct tape, apply them to seal off any cracks or holes. Use a cloth mesh to firmly attach the self-adhesives to the kayak. You may need to apply multiple layers of tape to completely cover the cracks.

Smooth it out

Once you have repaired your Pelican kayak, you may find that the patch is uneven with the surface of the kayak. To smooth it out, apply heat to a small area of about four square inches on the patch edges and press it against the kayak using a spoon or putty knife. Keep doing this until you are happy with the smoothness. Be careful not to heat too large an area at a time, as it will cool down quickly and harden. Also, don't press too hard, or you may bend your kayak.

For the final touch, place your kayak on some bricks or sawhorses and pour water onto the repaired area. If you think it needs to be smoother, you can use a heat torch to finish the job. Finally, sand the kayak with sandpaper to give it a professional finish.

Frequently asked questions