1997 208 Adv Minor Gel Coat Cracks?

Ben Heiser

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I just noticed a few gel coat cracks around each of the 4 corners highlighted in the picture below the pedestal seats. Not another gel coat crack to be found on the boat, around fish boxes or anything. I can’t stick my nail in them...not sure if it’s worth worrying about? I did have it surveyed before purchase and it was super clean...I am assuming just 22 year old boat patina!
 

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DennisG01

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Picture is taken from way too far away to see, but... from what you've described, I wouldn't worry about it. It's most likely a spot where the gelcoat was originally applied too thick and has since "spider cracked" or "stress cracked". Just cosmetic.
 

Ben Heiser

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I forgot to take a pic after I had it all covered for winter. I agree with you. Was hoping someone else has a bit in that area as well.
 

seasick

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If those are the only gel coat cracks you found, count your blessings.
 

DennisG01

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Was hoping someone else has a bit in that area as well.

Some might, some might not. Gelcoat is applied by hand at the factory. In reality, what others have doesn't really matter. I've seen this kind of thing, quite literally, hundreds and hundreds of times (I work in the industry). If it's what you are explaining, it is entirely a "no big deal" thing.
 

Fishtales

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Agree. Nothing to worry about. Watch it for now. You could fill it with some marine tex and watch it too.
 

seasick

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I have them on my 2001 208 too_Over time, they have started to look better. That's because I don't see as well I did years ago:)