Disclaimer: I don't know specifics about the H15. That's a European product, no?
Also, I'm no metallurgist, but, as I understand it, it is difficult (impossible?) to weld/patch such a crack in extruded aluminum without seriously weakening the nearby material.
I do know that, on just about any beachcat, the front crossbar is the main structural component of the platform as it takes all of the downward compressive forces of the rig. It's usually of robust design, and tears/splits are not something that just eventually happen. I'd bet that the boat has gone through some type of serious trauma in the past. Further, a front crossbar failure would likely be catastrophic and fold the boat in half. That would subject many other parts (trampoline, frame components, tiller crossbar, etc.) to forces for which they weren't designed and likely lead to their failure as well.
Pictures might get you a better prognosis, but I'd be looking for a replacement crossbar. Using the boat before the crossbar is replaced could easily make matters worse.
I hate to give such bad news regarding the new to you boat. If the seller knew about the split/tear and did not disclose it, they should have their saber broken. Any chance of getting some help with repair cost from them?
_________________ Jerome Vaughan Hobie 16
|