DaySailer.org Forum

The centerboard and rudder on my DS-1 are worn to the wood at the leading edge. Can I simply repaint these or should they be glassed and then painted. Also, what kind of paint is best and if glass is required, what is the process.

Michael Maynard (m.e.maynard-at-worldnet.att.net)

If you decide you want to get into working with fiberglass, it's probably best to get a book on the subject. It's not terribly complicated, but you would learn a lot more by buying or checking out a book. "This Old Boat" is a decent one, but is a general book on boat repair. Quitea bit is not applicable to the Day Sailer and other small sailboats. I recommend you go to your local book stores and libraries and see what they have.

If you need ot fix the boards quickly, you might consider using a product I've found works well forthis kind of thing. It's called Marine Tex. It's an epoxy based putty, comes in white or a dark gray color. You can shape it after it cures with files and sandpaper.

Thanks for the input Bob...sounds like the Marine Tex may be the way to go since the wood exposure is minimal. I also enjoy checking in on your site every now and then. Keep up the good work.

Michael Maynard (m.e.maynard-at-worldnet.att.net)