Patch over Single Fin Box

Ahoy Swaylockians,

When I install a Single fin box (10.5 FU) I always laminate a patch or two of fiberglass over the entire box after I grind the box down flush with the bottom and sand the hotcoat. I do this by taping over the slot in the box,Laminate patches, then I cut the outline of the tape with a razor, hotcoat, then peel out the tape. Then I sand that bit of hotcaot, retape the slot, then gloss. This method has worked well for me but I have heard rumor that you can laminate patches right over the finbox without taping off the slot. Then after gloss you can use a small flush trim bit to route out the fiberglass. So is it true that when laminating patches over the finbox that resin will not drip into the finslot? I don’t see how this can be but I have heard that it won’t drip in as long as you don’t use too much resin when laminating. I am just a little scared to try this because I don’t want to ruin a finbox install and possibly have to re-install a finbox if I blow it. I probably should just go for it but I am a chicken I guess. If any of you could confirm this technique for me that would be amazing. Thanks again Swaylocks and may there be waves wherever you are!

Follow genes lead! - haha that’s what I do!

When you lam your patch just get it saturated right up to the edge of the box slot and then take small amount of resin on your finger and dab the dry section until just saturated. Works for me. Hotcoast-gloss-route

You could also wet out your cloth on a piece of glass and then transfer it to the board - never tried it but seems like it would work.

Sweet Ya’ll. A appreciate the input. Just wanted to verify that this technique is legit. I will definitely be trying it out on my next board. Thanks!