spider cracks??

Hello, One of my hulls on my 83 H18 has spider cracks around the gungeons at th back of the hull. When I flex the rudder, it seems to be solid. Should I do some sort of reinforcement or repair? Any help appreciated.....thanks

Spider cracks...crazing. Gel coat is more brittle than glass and can crack even if the glass is fine.

This shows some excessive flexing has happened, but if still solid, it should be ok. You can reinforce from the inside of the hull it you are concerned. Would require a port installed in the aft deck for access.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Had that on two 18's. Think it comes from landing with the cams jambed. The boats with the old style rudders are more likely to show that kind of damage. I switched to the new one piece rudder gudgeon on one of my 18s because the stern was getting weak and I didn't want to do what Matt suggested. They spread the load out better and I feel will keep the stern solid forever.

Hello again, I've noticed through the summer some obvious weakening of the stern. It's not at the point of failure(yet!!), but I was wondering if you (Mr. Miller or anyone with knowledge on this matter) could give some helpful hints on performing this reinforcement/repair? I already have ports installed aft the rear cross bar. I assume you lay glass across the back on the inside but info on what materials would be best would be great. Once again thank you!!!

Rough up the inside of the transom area and along the hull and deck (inside) 4-6 inches forward all around the transom. Use fiberglass matte cloth and woven cut to the shape of the transom but 4-6 inches larger. Wet out the glass with resin and place into the transom. Matte against the hull and woven over the top. Squeegee into place and wrap onto the deck / hull surfaces. That should do it.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)