> I just finished sanding off the epoxy down to wood. On one of the butt
> joints I was actually able to peel the tape off the joint very easily and
> without taking any of the wood off. Is it possible that there was/is
> something in the wood that's preventing a good bond from forming? I'm
> ready to retape & epoxy but now I'm a little gun shy, having to sand
> down again may leave a noticeable impression.

> I think it may have been used mylar that caused the flaking originally,
> but the tape peeling off so easily has me nervous. Any further help, even
> if it's just a guess, is appreciated.

> Thanks in advance,

> Brion ---------------------------------------

Kind of flying in the dark here, but just to let you know that it is not all doom and gloom... One of my butt joints on my Coho did not work out right and it actually broke apart very easily. I cut off the remaining tape and epoxy with a utility knife, sanded it down and reglued it. It went fine the 2nd time around. Clean mylar, well sanded panel and some extra care was what it took. No big deal. Just do your best to keep the original shape of the panel. If all else fails Pygmy will send you replacement panels if you need them. They are very good about that. They want happy paddlers in finished boats.

Have you called their help line for advice? I found them to be very helpful.

Mike