Patching holes in an aluminum boat?

[Black Bass]

I just bought a 1950 Lone Star 14' aluminum boat. Over the years a number of small bolt and screw holes have been put in the hull which I'd like to patch.

What would you use for the project? I could use silicone or bondo, but wondered if there was something better.

[Stasher1]

Depending on the diameter of the holes, solid aluminum rivets might be an option.

http://www.rivetsinstock.com/rivet71.htm

You'll need a rivet gun/air hammer, bucking bar(s) and the proper rivet sets. Simple job that should only take a few seconds per hole, once you're set up.

[fourbizz]

Bolts or screws, lol.

Other than that, take it to a welding shop and they should be able too fill the holes quickly and easily.

[Catt]

Bolts or screws, lol.

Other than that, take it to a welding shop and they should be able too fill the holes quickly and easily.

There you are 

[bilgerat]

http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1253489706

[32251]

Find a good welding shop or someone who builds race cars. Have the places welded. Worked great for me.

[Wayne P.]

http://aluminumrepair.com/land/index.asp?src=google&gclid=CPXEjOW39J4CFQ975Qodmy5YKQ

[Fishbone]

I bought a fist full of welding rods for aluminum at an engine show. They demo'd coke cans and bar stock being welded with a propane torch. Worked real well. If I punch a hole in my boat, that will be what I turn to.

[Bassn Blvd]

I bought a fist full of welding rods for aluminum at an engine show. They demo'd coke cans and bar stock being welded with a propane torch. Worked real well. If I punch a hole in my boat, that will be what I turn to.

I bought and used these for my jon mod. The welding rods worked great and I'm nowhere close to being a welder. The boat has been left tied to the dock for 8 months now and guess what, ZERO leaks.

Here is some advice if you decide to use the welding rods and propane torch. Practice on some aluminum first. It is very easy to get the hang of using them.

I believe I have a handful of rods left over in my garage. PM me your address and I'll send you a couple to try out. You'll just have to buy the propane torch. Wal-Mart, Home Depot and hardware stores carry torch.

http://www.aluminumrepair.com/aluminum_repair.asp

Here are the ones I bought.

http://www.alumiweld.com/

[done]

I got the HTS-2000 brazing rods an fixed my jon myself when I needed to. Was real tough to find a welder in the area who would do that gauge aluminum (there was only 1 within 80 miles).

You need to practice with the brazing first. It is easy to screw up but it works awesome when done right.