The Rachel: Fixing A Broken Carbon Fiber Kayak Paddle

I demonstrate one way to reattach a broken kayak paddle blade. This method uses woven carbon sleeve and epoxy resin. The paddle blade is first attached to the paddle shaft then reinforced with carbon fiber. The repair is finished with an epoxy fill coat and a cross-linked water-based polyurethane.

[@kristaps2010]

well done introducing this technique. thank you

[@powpierre]

I have an old AT paddle I’d like to refinish. What cross linked polyurethane finish did you use or recommend. I figured I’d end up using an epoxy but maybe I’m wrong?

[@jehu-kayak]

You can also use talc to thickin epoxy, but some people prefer the consistency silica offers

[@hotsoupandfiber]

Yes, talc is a fantastic thickener, but it's very heavy so I don't use it for lightweight repairs.

[@shenanigoon2K]

What would you recommend for fiberglass shafts? I just had a paddle break somewhat cleanly similar to yours. Werner said I'd have to essentially buy half a paddle as it's a 2-piece which seems ludicrous.

[@hotsoupandfiber]

I generally fix everything with carbon. Unless the repair needs to have VERY similar properties to the original material (like flex), I just repair everything with carbon and epoxy.

[@shenanigoon2K]

@@hotsoupandfiber Cool, using your video as inspiration I've got most of the materials and will try this out pretty soon! What kinds of tape did you use for the ends, is the blue thin stuff special somehow?

[@hotsoupandfiber]

@@shenanigoon2K It's regular blue painters tape from the hardware store.

[@jehu-kayak]

Fume Silica is the worst! I feel as tho I’m gunna die even when I only breath in a little