Hip-Block Installation Instructions - Part I "micro-balloons"

 

1. Sit in your boat to decide the best position for your hipblocks.  (to make sure they are even, you can mark a centerline on the cockpit, and mark with tape equal measurements to the front of the hip-blocks, like this)

5.  First you'll need to tape each with masking tape.  tape the flange inside the boat and up the vertical edges to prevent the micro-spheres/resin mixture from running out.  (standard masking tape, or duct tape can serve for this.  create a vertical "tape dam" on the edges of the hip-blocks, to hold the micro-balloons mix in until it cures.  You can also add colored pigment at this time. (I suggest black)

4.  Now that both hip-blocks are temporarily glued and where you want them, you are ready to fill the cockpit rim / hip-block gap with epoxy resin and micro-spheres (a.k.a. micro-balloons) or other resin filler. (micro-spheres and other fiberglass supplies can be purchased at sweetcomposites.com)

3.  Using 5-minute epoxy (available a Wal-mart), put a small amount of glue on the flange of each of the hip-blocks, and hold in place for 5 minutes until it sticks.  (Be sure you hold it vertically and in proper position, this will serve as a temporary bond making it easy to glass.  I've found this to be a much better method than using clamps, which can slip around, and can get messy)

Part II click here

8. Click here to continue to Part II - kevlar reinforcement

7. After this is set up, you are ready to flip the boat over and do the kevlar reinforcement work. You can use ladders or rope to tie the boat upside down.  You want the bottom side of the hip-blocks to be at eye level. 

6.  Mix epoxy resin and micro-balloons (mix to a thick syrup like consistency),  place in zip lock bag,  clip the corner of the bag, and squeeze the mixture into the gap. (keep filling as needed, it will slowly flow throughout gaps, with occasional air bubbles rising.)

 

2. Once you know where they go, sand the bottom 1" and flange of the hip-blocks so the epoxy micro-ballon mixture will adhere well.