Gel coat repair question --Manteo

[Law Dog]

I have a Parker. I have a small hole in the top of my livewell (in the corner where the lid sits). It is from a void in the fiberglass work. It is probably 1/4 inch tall, 3/4 inch wide and 1/4 inch deep.

I need to fill in the hole. I was told to use some Parker gel coat with a hardener. Parker sent me the gel coat but said they could not ship the hardener to me because it is deemed a hazardous substance. They said I should just pick up the hardener locally. They also said I would only need about a tablespoons worth.

The boat is in Manteo. Where can I acquire the hardener? I have never made such a repair before.

Thanks for the guidance.

[Capt. Fred]

I'm not certain but I think the hardner you need is MEK. (methyl ethyl ketone) Anybody know for sure? If it is MEK then you can get it at auto parts stores, marine stores, and even Lowes sometimes has it. It comes in small tubes and is pretty cheap.

[Capt Rick Hiott]

Do a little reading here,,,iboats Boating Forums

[Law Dog]

Capt Fred:

You were real close. It appears to be MEKP. I am going to give it a go. The repair cannot possibly look worse than the hole. At least that is the hope.

Thanks.

[Capt. Fred]

Gel coat sands pretty easy so leave it a bit high and sand it flush. Don't be surprised if you find some bubbles in it while sanding. Just a thin second coat should take care of them.