First launch of new boat didn't go well .....

[beshman2]

Dave,

While I have no experience with Compacs, I do have some with epoxy and it is not that difficult to work with given time and patience (along with a good mask, long sleeves, latex gloves, etc).  I would concur with everyone else here that you are looking at previous damage that was poorly patched with JB Weld and a prayer.  That card like object might be the end of a piece of fiberglass tape used in the previous repair.  It looks like there may be some JB Weld underneath it indicating..? 

From the looks of your first photo, the original damage may be two to three times the size of the actual exposed area.  You need to sand that bottom paint (again, good mask, long sleeves and decent gloves) back and find the original size of the damaged area.  Sand the bottom paint off a few inches back to the original factory gelcoat all the way around.  This will give you an idea of what you are working with size wise. 

You will want to feather sand the edges into a beveled shape and cut a large single piece of heavy fiberglass cloth in the shape of the damage after the internal keel material dries out.  Soak this in the epoxy of your choice and lay it over the area.  Brush out any bubbles and keep the cloth flat against the surface.  Remember, depending on your mix, you will have a short working time (plan on using disposable brushes).  Let the first layer cure then lightly sand to give it some teeth and remove any blush.  Build it up in layers until you reach the original contour of the keel.  You will be amazed at how strong this stuff is.  If the damage is concave, you can cut each layer a little smaller in diameter to fill the hole while keeping the edges flat. 

I have used RAKA epoxy over the last few years with good success, it is a very easy 2 to 1 mix ratio and is available in a fast and slow cure mix.  There is a good kit available from the website that has both the fast and slow hardener for just over $100.00 with shipping (much more epoxy than you will need for this repair).     

When done, paint with a good quality marine paint rated for under the water line.  Reapply your bottom paint and you should be good to go.  Monitor the area for awhile after each sail to make sure everything is holding up.             

Now about that offer to sell... if you were a little closer to Delmarva and based on your original purchase price, absolutely!  Either way, good luck and it seems as though there are a lot of people here with years of knowledge willing to help.  Another good resource is trailersailor.com, there are several people there who have boat building businesses who can give much better advice on this repair than I can. 

Bryan
(Former NH boy)

[Bob Condon]

Dave,

I am in Acton Mass which is not far (60 miles). Rye is just above
Hampton beach if I am not mistaken... Actually drove through the Hampton tolls
last night pulling my CP 19 last night from Maine...

I would be willing to take a ride up and taking a look some evening if interested
and see what we can see.

Cell phone 978-549-9491 and we can make arrangements (need to check the calendar with my wife as she spent the week in Maine without me... lucky her!)

I can take a look, poke and prod and then tell you what I would do after we talk about skills...

[demanon]

Hey Bob ... you're on!
Yes, Rye is just above Hampton. Of course I am buying you a great meal at Saunders afterwards ... they have great food and a great deck overlooking the Harbor ... I will call you ... thanks again.
Dave

[Bob Condon]

Dave,

No problem
let me know your schedule. I am open most nights this week (at least it appears)

thx

Bob

[Rick Klages]

Thank God for friends both old and new!

ick