Cracks on the hull and keel

[Piajempi]

I was doing some inspecion on my Tartan 245 and I noticed some hairline cracks on the hull and keel. They're not massive, a couple of inches long and look like a dry rotting tire. This has me concerned, so I'm looking to hear your opinions on this? First, why and second, what can I do about it?

 

[magicmushroom]

I was doing some inspecion on my Tartan 245 and I noticed some hairline cracks on the hull and keel. They're not massive, a couple of inches long and look like a dry rotting tire. This has me concerned, so I'm looking to hear your opinions on this? First, why and second, what can I do about it?

Those cracks sound liike typical gelcoat stress cracks, especially if they look like dry rot and are just a few inches long . Theyre usually cosmetic, but its smart to keep an eye on them. If there's no sign of moisture or deeper damage, you can sand, fill and fair them. But if they're near the keel joint or feel soft, it might be worth getting a closer look. Did you notice any flexing or water coming through?

 

[Sinclair2]

Did you notice if the cracks are just on the surface, or do they run deeper into the laminate?

 

[Tatrio]

Did the cracks appear near high-stress areas like the keel-hull joint or chainplate zones and have you checked if they're just gelcoat crazing or signs of deeper laminate fatigue?