: If I read this right, you have the cloth and 2 coats that are solid. The 3rd
: coat is flaking off.
: Maybe blush on the second coat?
: Sounds like a good sanding, apply the seam tape, and fill coat as required
: ,may do the job.
: You would put 1 or 2 fill coats over the tape anyway so you could blend it in
: to the hull and deck at the same time.
: How long was it between the2nd and 3rd coats?

: Terry

Hi Terry: Thanks for your response. To respond to your questions: I discounted amine blush for two reasons, although not necessarily true. The East system epoxy isn't supposed to have amine blush problems with the hardener I used. I also put the 2nd and 3rd coats on when the previous coat had taken a set, but was still quite wet--left residue on the finger when lightly touched to check progress. I didn't time the application since I knew I was altering the set time because of the reduced temperature.

I've done a full surface scrape, sanding and recoat, but not without some small remaining problems. However, it looks like it has taken properly. Incidentally, I used the same manufacturer's batch of epoxy as the original coats problem, on both the deck and this repair, and "seem" to have no problem. This leads me to conclude that indeed, low temperature was the cause. During the scrape, I determined that the problem was consistent on the entire hull, with minor variations.

I'm not overly satisfied with the final results, but I've rationalized it as my first stripper attempt, and its only a working boat, not meant to be a museum piece. I will let the unit cure now for the balance of the winter, and will sand and finish in the spring, once the weather is warm enough. I want to keep the sanding dust out of the house.

Thanks again for the help.

Jim Lindamood