[C320-list] Leak at Propeller Shaft Strut

[Dennis Harris]

Our boat is in the yard having the bottom painted. Today, I observed a thin 
crack with water weeping out (crosswise relative to the hull and just 
forward of the prop shaft strut).  I have not observed leakage in the boat 
(prior to pulling the boat).  I ask the yard to repair (our mutual 
assessment being that the crack aligns with the forward edge of the strut 
plate) and they have ground out a large section (~5" x 8") gradually 
tapering in towards the leak line.  At this point, it is continuing to weep 
and they will check tightness of the four strut bolts tomorrow.  Needless to 
say, I'm not pleased with the amount of grinding, but if they refiberglass 
it properly, I guess that structurally it will be ok.

For those of you who have repaired leaks here (or in other underwater 
areas), is there something that we should do for long term blister 
protection in the area of the repair?  I have not had any blisters on the 
boat and don't want to start now.  With all the grinding, the vinylaster 
protective coat is surely breached.  Thanks for any advice....but I need it 
quickly.

Dennis Harris C320 # 694