Hobie AI/TI owner? Check this for possible leak...

I've had a slow leak in my AI for a long time, and it was driving me nuts trying to figure out how the water was getting into the hull. I'm satisfied that the front hatch (the most likely source of water infiltration) is well-sealed, as are the round hatches (next most likely source of leaks). The rudder lines will let in some water, but it should be very little, even in rough weather.

Yesterday, I carefully dried the inside of my 2013 AI. Today, I noticed some unexpected dampness inside the hull around the mast cup. That seemed weird, so I filled up the mast cup until it was overflowing with water, and I noted a steady drip from the topside of the hull, where the mast cup is attached. I was surprised, as I don't ever recall seeing any discussion of leaking in that location on an AI/TI.

It's easy to check for this type of leak, but most of the recommended generic leak tests won't find it. First, make sure everything inside and out is completely dry. Then fill up the mast cup with water, until it overflows all over the place (maybe even leave a hose running in it), making sure that the entire area around the top of the mast cup is soaked. Look inside the front hatch for any hint of water infiltration around the mast cup.

At least on my pre-2015 AI (and, I suspect, on all AI/TI models) the top side of the hull around the mast base is regularly soaked with water in any semi-rough conditions. So, a leak there can let in significant amounts of water.

If any of this is not clear, LMK and I'll post some pictures...

Thanks for posting this. My AI doesn’t leak at all when moving at a leisurely pace on flat water, but ends up with quarts of water in the hull when moving fast in rough conditions. I suspected the rudder lines, but maybe it’s this.

Thanks for posting this. My AI doesn’t leak at all when moving at a leisurely pace on flat water, but ends up with quarts of water in the hull when moving fast in rough conditions. I suspected the rudder lines, but maybe it’s this.

+1

I feel some water come in from the rudder control line holes.