Alex, I am sure the round gunwale can be pulled back out. That will bring the side wall under it back out also. Now it will most likely still be obvious that there was some damage done but it should not effect the operation of the boat. The dent in the round bar will still be there and if you attempt to pull it to get tube straight, the side of the tube may split. Then it would need to be welded.
Second method would be to cut the round tube and replace it with a short section of round rube and have it welded on, then have the weld smoothed out before painting. Removing the rube would allow the side wall to straighten and the new section of pipe would hold it straight.
Still I think it would be noticeable that sone damage had been done there. But it would still be a good fishing boat.
You need to find a good welder and see the he says it would cost to repair. Then negotiate the price on the damaged boat with the dealer.
Tom, Thanks for your feedback. I'm ok if the repaired damage showing. It a new jon boat I can pick up for $500. I'm planning to carry to local lakes in back of my pick up.
Yep, I agree with Tom. You could also just bend it back out weld a short section of tubing half over it to reinforce it and while you're at it make that piece a mount for rod holder or depth finder or whatever. Easy fix if the deal is cheap enough.
Steve is right about adding some aluminum to make a rod holder base or fish finder mount. I did that to the boat I gave to my son. Used 2 x 2 square aluminum 1/4 inch thick tube for that. You have several options. If you get the aluminum stock, cut it to fit and smooth the edges you can save a good deal of money when hiring a welder.
Alex, it is well worth thinking about if the end result will get you what you want. And at a good price. Just release the dealer is going to have a really hard time selling it like that so be sure to get the best price you can.
I probably wouldn't fix it either. But if I did, I'd put a 2x4 flat on either side and pull it with a big C clamp or a bar clamp would also work. Just clamp the 2x4's together.
Ya need a car body guy or someone who knows how. I could fix that in about 1 hr with a good deadblow hammer, reg 2lb hammer, and a back block. Cut that tube at the bend have it welded back when done.
You see where the metal is creased you have upset the metal along it starting at each end of the crease and work your way in. Take to a car body guy. It will be kids play for him.
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