Leaky hull on Sportster

[rkzylius]

I have a 2005 sportster that leaks between the top & bottom hull (under the rub rail). As far as I can tell it's just around the swim platform, and is only noticeable when it's on the trailer during launching. At that time the rub rail is underwater, and water runs in at a rate of 1-2 gallons per minute. The problem could exist around the whole boat, not sure of that. It's like the boat wasn't put together correctly at the factory!
I had a guy drill out the rivets holding the rub rail on, take it off, reseal and re-rivet the rub rail back on. I guess he did a bad job, the boat still leaks. He used Silicone sealant for the leaks. I've been told not to use 3M 5200 by some people, but I've been told to use it by others.
Any tips on fixing this for a 2nd time? Like they say, if you want something done right, fix it yourself. Just not sure how.

 

[kustomkarl]

Welcome to the seadoo forum fkzylius. The rub rail is a easy repair... if it leaking there. Check the Rubber fittings around the exhaust too and the bolts around the jet pump. If you launch it with that part not going under water, see if it still leaks. I have a feeling it might be coming in from some where else.

Karl

 

[rkzylius]

I tried backing the boat in in sections. With the rub rail just above the water line there is no water coming in. At that point the exhaust and jet pump bolts are underwater. When the rub rail goes under you can see water running down the inside of the hull from above (where the 2 hulls meet).