Anyone taken West System class?

**cincitrader** · 12-04-2018, 09:11 PM

So unfortunately the boat I just picked up (that was inspected) has some keel issues that need a fix. In searching I saw recommendations for West System stuff and noticed they have a class. Anyone taken it? Worthwhile?

Thanks in advance

**frogII** · 12-05-2018, 01:38 PM

took it about 20 something years ago
well worth it in my book , mostly because it was new to me
I would like to go again

**rjdubiel** · 12-05-2018, 02:31 PM

The nice thing about fiberglass is if you mess it up, grind it off and go again!

**cincitrader** · 12-05-2018, 03:21 PM

Totally makes sense - was just thinking I'd want to do it as close to right the first time vs. have a fail on the water

**cincitrader** · 12-05-2018, 03:22 PM

p.s. now they are looking to enroll mainly watercraft professionals anyway, so I might be stuck watching youtube and bugging their help line.

**BarryStrawn** · 12-05-2018, 03:31 PM

They have excellent instruction manuals. Start by reading boat repair and maintenance. Https://www.westsystem.com/instruction-manuals

**cincitrader** · 12-05-2018, 03:54 PM

And free too

**BarryStrawn** · 12-05-2018, 10:29 PM

Their epoxy isn't

Been using it 30 years and that is the only negative I can think of.

**cincitrader** · 12-06-2018, 04:44 AM

What do you recommend instead Barry?

**BarryStrawn** · 12-06-2018, 02:37 PM

I use West. But I only do the occasional small project or repair. Worth the cost to me.

**XstreamVking** · 12-09-2018, 03:28 PM

Mas epoxy is more economical and is still a good quality. Variety of resins and hardeners.

**MattGreen** · 12-12-2018, 08:29 PM

I have used a ton of WEST (and System-3) over the years and agree they have top notch tech support and publications. BUT that is incorporated into the price. I’ve moved on to the MVS-410 series from PTM&W (makers of Aeropoxy). Cheaper, no amine blush, lower viscosity (better wet-out) and still multiple hardeners. I ain’t going back

Matt