Aluminum Boat Repair

[AJ]

I had my aluminum boat (70s alumacraft, 16 feet) damaged above the waterline. Basically the front quarter was pushed in significantly by an oak tree. The boat is heavy gauged aluminum, no floor or trim. The side and gunwale are both completely pushed in 1-2 feet from their normal position. Will float, but it looks ridiculous and probably would not work well in waves. Overall structure/rigidity may be compromised as well, not positive. Anyone have ideas on how/where to repair near Walker or Cities? Can you even repair such an injury?

[EBass]

Only suggestion I have is Crystal Welding in Osseo (closer to Rogers though) on Hwy 81. Good luck - um oak tree fall on it?

[Northlander]

Claim it on your insurance and get a new boat. It wont be the same after that.

[Surface Tension]

The price to have it repaired would be more then a 70's 16' boat is worth.

I'd imagine the gunwale has a pretty good bend to it. That'll have to come off first.

Then hopefully you don't have any bent ribs.

Either cut out the bent section and replace with aluminum or pound it back out. Both options won't look pretty. Pretty much lay the boat on its side and pound out the bend. Think french wheel as you pound it out. Lifting the stern and working it down as you make way with maul using the ground as an anvil.

Consider the price of scrap aluminum compared to a used 16' plain jane boat. I've seen them on c list for $200

Take pictures!

[Steve Bakken]

We have a good friend up there by Walker that does the same type of boat repairs that we do, but unfortunately, he's probably gonna tell you the same thing you've already been hearing