Repairing Leaky Rivets In An Aluminum Boat: A Step-By-Step Guide

Owning a boat can be a lot of fun, but it also comes with maintenance responsibilities. One common issue that aluminium boat owners face is leaky rivets. While it is possible to fix these leaks, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. In this article, we will explore the different methods and products available to fix leaky rivets in aluminium boats, including the use of hammers, sealants, and epoxy. We will also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each approach, providing boat owners with the information they need to make informed decisions about repairing their vessels.

Using a hammer to tighten rivets

To fix leaky rivets in an aluminium boat, you can use a hammer to tighten them. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Identify the Leaky Rivets

Before you start tightening, you need to identify which rivets are leaking. You can do this by beaching your boat and gradually sliding it into the water, marking the leaking rivets as you go. Alternatively, you can fill the boat with water and mark the rivets that are leaking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Tools and Work Area

To tighten the rivets, you'll need a hammer and, ideally, a helper. If you don't have a helper, you'll need long arms! You can use any type of hammer, such as a ball-peen hammer, a carpenter's hammer, or even the face of a sledgehammer. If you have a helper, they can hold the hammer while you position the buck.

Step 3: Position the Buck and Hammer

To tighten a rivet, you need to hold a buck (any anvil-like hunk of steel) tightly against the flat side of the rivet. This can be done with a helper or, if you have long enough arms, by yourself. Position the buck tightly against the rivet, then use the hammer to strike the crimped end of the rivet.

Step 4: Start Hammering

With the buck in position, start hammering the crimped end of the rivet. Be careful not to use too much force, as old aluminium rivets can split or break if struck too hard. A few gentle taps should be enough to tighten the rivet.

Step 5: Repeat as Needed

If you have multiple leaky rivets, simply repeat the process for each one. With a helper, this process should only take a few seconds per rivet.

By following these steps, you can quickly and easily tighten leaky rivets in your aluminium boat, ensuring that your boat remains watertight and safe for use.

Drilling out rivets and replacing them

Drilling out and replacing rivets is a common method for fixing leaky rivets in an aluminium boat. This method is preferred over sealants or adhesives, which are more likely to fail and need replacing.

To begin, you will need to identify which rivets are leaking. This can be done by filling the boat with water and observing where the water collects. Mark the leaky rivets with a circle so you know which ones to address.

Next, you will need to gather your tools and materials. You will need a drill, a new set of rivets, a rivet gun, and some form of sealant or epoxy. It is also recommended to have a helper for this process, as it will make the job easier and faster.

Once you have identified the leaky rivets and gathered your supplies, you can begin drilling. Centre the drill bit over the rivet and apply gentle pressure to drill out the existing rivet. Be careful not to wobble the drill, as this can distort the hole. Drill until the head of the rivet pops off, then remove the remainder of the rivet with a punch.

After all the leaky rivets have been drilled out, it is important to prepare the holes for the new rivets. Use a wire brush to clean the holes and remove any debris or corrosion. You may also want to apply a primer or sealant to the holes to prevent future corrosion.

Now you are ready to install the new rivets. Insert the new rivet from the outside of the boat, and use the rivet gun to secure it in place. Have your helper hold a piece of steel or a bucking bar against the rivet on the inside of the boat to provide backing while you work. Strike the rivet a few times with the rivet gun until it is securely in place.

Finally, apply a sealant or epoxy over the new rivets to ensure a watertight seal. Allow the sealant to dry completely before using the boat again.

Applying a sealant like JB Weld

To apply JB Weld, or a similar sealant, first ensure that the area around the rivet is clean and dry. Roughen the surface around the rivet with a wire brush or sandpaper to help the sealant adhere. Then, simply apply the sealant with your hands, covering the rivet completely with a generous amount. The sealant will cure and form a hard blob that allows the rivet to move underneath while preventing water from entering.

It is important to note that while JB Weld is a reliable solution for sealing leaky rivets, it does not address the underlying issue of a weak or loose rivet. For a more permanent fix, you may need to consider re-bucking or replacing the rivets. This typically requires specialised tools and an extra pair of hands.

Before applying any sealant, it is recommended to test for leaks by filling the boat with water. This will help identify the exact location of the leaks and determine the severity of the problem. It is also a good idea to consult a professional boat mechanic or seek advice from experienced individuals before attempting any repairs.

By following these steps and choosing an appropriate sealant, you can effectively fix leaky rivets in your aluminium boat, ensuring a dry and safe boating experience.

Using a gas soldering gun and a plastic bottle

Fixing leaky rivets in an aluminium boat can be done cheaply and easily. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it using a gas soldering gun and a plastic bottle:

First, get yourself a gas soldering gun and a 2-litre plastic bottle. You can use an empty 2-litre plastic Coke bottle for this. Next, heat up the rivet area that is leaking. You can do this by holding the soldering gun against the rivet for a few seconds. Once the rivet is heated, take the plastic bottle and touch the plastic to the heated rivet. The plastic will melt and create a seal around the rivet, stopping the leak. It is important to work quickly and carefully during this step to avoid melting too much plastic or accidentally burning yourself.

This method is a fast and effective way to fix leaky rivets in an aluminium boat. It is also much cheaper than buying a new boat or paying for professional repairs. With this method, you can have your boat back in the water in no time, without breaking the bank.

It is worth noting that while this method is a quick fix, it may not be a permanent solution. Over time, the plastic seal may weaken or come loose, and the rivets may start to leak again. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect your boat for any signs of leaks and repeat the process as needed.

Additionally, it is always a good idea to have a helper when working on boat repairs. They can assist in holding tools, passing supplies, and spotting any potential hazards. By working together, you can ensure that the repairs are done safely and efficiently.

Gluvit epoxy

Gluvit is an epoxy sealer that can be used to fix leaky rivets in an aluminium boat. It is a versatile product that can be used on wood, aluminium, steel, and fibreglass surfaces. It creates an excellent impact and abrasion-resistant barrier coat that minimises corrosion, seals cracks and leaks, and strengthens stringers, decking, and moulding.

To prepare the surface for Gluvit application, you need to frost sand it with 80-100 grit sandpaper, remove all grit and dust with a solvent rinse, and ensure there is room for a power mixer to blend the resin and hardener. If you have deep holes, more than 1/8 inch in depth, fill them with Marine Tex epoxy putty before applying Gluvit.

Gluvit is easy to apply with a brush or roller and penetrates deep into the pores of the wood or metal to bond and harden. A 2-pound unit covers 25-35 square feet when applied at 6-8 mils, and an 8-pound unit covers 100-130 square feet at the same thickness. It is recommended to paint over Gluvit for maximum ultraviolet protection.

Some users have reported positive experiences with Gluvit, stating that it stopped leaks in their aluminium boats and provided excellent protection. However, one user noted that Gluvit failed after some years due to the flexing of their boat's hull. Gluvit is available at various retailers, with prices ranging from $47.74 for a 2-pound unit to $208.08 for a larger quantity.

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