J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment Balsa core thickness

I've got a soft spot on deck around the anchor storage lid where the wood screws used to secure the hinges have leaked. I'm not exactly sure how large the wet spot is going to be, so I'd like to be ready with some replacement core material if the "drill, scoop, and fill with epoxy" routine looks too large. Any idea what thickness balsa I should get? How about for the rest of the deck (for future reference.)

Also, what are your collective opinions on cutting the inside skin vs cuttting the outside skin for repairs?

Cheers,

Tom Eskridge
Twister #469

I have made repairs around the main winches, the genoa tracks and the cabin top. Those areas used 3/4" balsa. I had to make the repairs from the top around the main winches because there is a layer of plywood under the balsa that gets in the way. If your deck looks good and you don't plan on repainting, I would try to make the repairs from the underside. When you are ready to start the repairs empty the boat of everthing before you start cutting. You don't want the fiberglass dust in you cushions or sail bags, and cover everthing with plastic. believe me, the epoxy will somehow get everywhere.

I agree with all comments. It's all 3/4" balsa everywhere (I know from direct observation). The wet area is probobly large if it's bad enough to notice with flexing skins. If you do drill and fill besure to drill many drying holes on the inside and let them be for a year or more. Else, you'll trap water in the deck core to do it's mischief. Having recored a great deal from below I'd not do it from above, even though it is a sticky pain to recore over your head. (Takes weeks to get epoxy out of your hair!) The outer skin is thicker, provides most of the structure, and I'm just not good enough to make it look good. Cut out the bad, throw it away, recore, reglass, and paint if you like. (it's in the closet after all.)

While you're at it, and since you have the boat emptied out (see previous post), check around, see if there's more spots. Best to get it all done at once!