fiberglass mat

[karlhh]

Has anybody done or know if you can use 5min epoxy with fiberglass mat to set a stuffing tube in a fiberglass hull? Or patch the back of holes that are not needed?

[blizard05]

Has anybody done or know if you can use 5min epoxy with fiberglass mat to set a stuffing tube in a fiberglass hull? Or patch the back of holes that are not needed?

yes and yes

[jkr]

Yes.
1) Scuff the area arround 1/2 inch
2) Clean the area arround with acetone (the clear one wiyh no oil)

[karlhh]

good thanks

[sailr]

There is a great product called Model matrix that I use to install stuffing tubes. It already contains very finely chopped fiberglass. Get it here:

https://www.modeladhesives.com

all of their products are killer!

[JIM MARCUM]

I only use the 5 min epoxy for very small glass patches & sealing stuffing tubes. For reinforcing catamaran sponson seems with fiberglass tape, or flexable fiberglass cloth for deck reinforcement I would NOT use it. I use Westsystem 105 Epoxy resin and 206 (slow) hardener. Both can be bought with push pumps to make precise mixing simple. For small batches, I use a postal scale set to zero with a cup on it, pour X amount catalyst into the cup first, then add 5 times as much resin & mix for at least 1 min. It's a 5/1 ratio whether weight or volume. If you are patching an old hole in the deck or transom, mix in shreaded fiberglass power (not beads) until the epoxy the consistency of wood putty. No cloth needed. JIM

[JonD]

I would not use standard "hardware shop variety" 5 minute epoxy for anything that requires good long term strength and reliabilty. For small jobs where I want a quick and easy "fix" but want maximum rigidity and strength I always use Devcon 2-Ton epoxy, in the small twin dispenser tube pack. Yes you do need a dispenser gun, but they don't cost much, are an "industry size" and can be used with a whole variety of adhesive twin pack adhesive products from many manufacturers. I wouldn't be without one. I have found Devcon 2-Ton is good as both a fibreglass resin for small jobs, and also as a straight out adhesive where you require a high strength rigid joint.

Jon