Gel coat cracks - are they normal
Noticed two hairline cracks in the gel coat ( 2" apart parallel to each other). Starts at the entry door radius at the top and extends toward the front corner going up at almost a 45 degree angle all ...
Forum Discussion
Gel coat cracks are usually caused by the gel coat being applied too thick. When the sun hits that area the resin (gelcoat) expands much more than the FG matrix. This is worse with darker colors because more heat is absorbed. This is usually more noticeable in front and rear caps in the radius where resin tends to be thicker during the layup. The tighter the radius the easier it is for gelcoat to pool. FG layups with 60% FG and 40% resin are ideal. More resin will tend to crack along the lamination's. Gel coat should be less than .020 thick. Stress cracks usually show up around sharp corners large radius tend to distribute the stress minimizing stress fractures. When you return the MH to the dealer for warranty work ask how the gel coat was applied and how thick. They will know this when they repair it. If the gel coat is thin then something is not right in the structure like an unbonded frame member. Hope this helps you find the problem.
