Hi,

I've 2 year old Hein kiteboard and it got crack in the middle (see picture)... Is there a way to fix it? Hein says to ditch it ... Very disappointed in his boards obviously...

Would a layer of fiberglass or carbon hold it?

It is repairable. I would sand about a 2in wide area the length of the crack till it goes to the core at the crack. Probably need 1 layer uni 10oz and and 2 layers 6oz. Can be pretty if you want to sand and prime the whole bottom. Leave the scar as it gives you something to talk about..

S

You can seal the crack, but if the core is destroyed (or damaged) all the pressure will concentrate in that cracked aria and it will lead to full destruction. You also have to fix core, replace damaged part, or compensate it with laminate. But the board will never be the same again. Probably repair costs will be too high and without any guarantee. Maybe there are some professional board repairer in your area

Not worth it, but if you have the time:

Cut out at least 6 inches of glass all around the break. All the way to the foam.
With some carbon, make some "stringers" and cut them into the foam and over the break.

Then re- do all the layers of glass and/or carbon.

This is what I used to do with my old boards.
Worked, until I landed hard.
I think, without a vac bag, those repairs don't last.
But, when there is no wind or it's snowing out, why not try.

That's sad ... Is it me riding the board too hard, or is it the design/workmanship/materials to blame?

Just can't believe the board didn't even last 2 years... and I only kitesurf on weekends...


If I cut 6 inches around the area and put carbon strips and than do full layer(1 or 2?), would it hold? I have vacuum bag to do it ...

I'm riding bindings, so fast and hard landings do occur often ...

From the picture it looks like you have ridden the board onto sand or kickers sliders and other crap many times. If so, no wonder it broke.
Of course, I just think that because the (heelside?;)) edge on the left looks all trashed as well as lots of scratches and the crack on the other edge. Maybe I am wrong?
But I think you have just thrashed it.
In my opinion, that style of riding is why we have the cheaper pop-out boards.

You have nothing to lose but try as suggested. Get yourself some west epoxy and a bit of glass and go for it. West marine has all that as well as fillers. It would be expensive to have a builder do it because of the labour but the materials are cheap. The way you trash your bottom I would suggest you learn how to repair your stuff.......Once repaired it will ride as good as new.

I build boards and it would be easier and faster for me or heinto build you a new one but not cheaper!

Cheers
Stan

No kickers. I don't even remember hitting it hard. It does scratch very easy though. I also have RougeWave board and it is rock sold. As well as my old Liquid Force drop did hold a lot better.

Thanks guys! I'll try to repair it when I have some time ...