Best Bedding Compound (deck hardware)

[Bob4203]

This subject must have been addressed ever since fiberglass boats went into production! However, I thought I would throw the subject out again as I will be removing all my stanchions and pulpits soon for a total re-bedding (yep, the weather has been decent here in the south so deck work is possible). The big question is, what is the best bedding compound? I read months ago that butyl rubber might be the latest and greatest and despite its cost would seem the least messiest and easiest to use. Cut a gasket and screw 'er down! I know better to stay away from 5200 as its more of a permanent bond, unless it has come out as a new formula.

So fellow 30 owners, what's the consensus on bedding compounds especially for those very weak, poorly installed lifeline stanchions?

Thanks

Bob
1988 Mark II
Lake Lanier, GA

 

[chrisings]

I re-bedded our cabin top teak handrails with Bed-It Tape last year. First time I tried the stuff and found it easy to work with and not messy at all. Time will tell how well it holds up. Curious to hear what others have to say.

 

[topcat0399]

I did a full re-bedding last year - something on the order of 150 fasteners using Bed-It Tape from MaineSail and following the excellent advice given at the link below.


http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/rebedding_hardware


Very few places on a boat that would ever need something like 5200.
Using butyl in the roll Mainesail can sell you isn't merely a cut a gasket and paste kind of deal. Its more of a kneed and form deal and I had the sore thumbs to prove it but it was worth it.

 

[chrisings]

I did a full re-bedding last year - something on the order of 150 fasteners using Butyl tape from MaineSail and following the excellent advice given at the link below.


http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/rebedding_hardware


Very few places on a boat that would ever need something like 5200.
Using butyl in the roll Mainesail can sell you isn't merely a cut a gasket and paste kind of deal. Its more of a kneed and form deal and I had the sore thumbs to prove it but it was worth it.

I should have mentioned that I too purchased Bed-It Tape from MaineSail and followed his excellent directions.

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

I read months ago that butyl rubber might be the latest and greatest and despite its cost would seem the least messiest and easiest to use.

The initial cost of butyl tape is a fraction of 4200, Life Caulk, and other similar etceteras.

Plus throw in the fact it keeps pretty much forever if stored in a sealed baggie (and maybe even that's overkill).

Plus no mess ................ and I think you've got your answer.

 

[dj2210]

I have slowly re- bedding the stanchions with butyl tape and so far so good. I have been using it for most deck bedding tasks or anywhere I need a water proof seal. Such as a wire passing through an opening etc.

 

[Guts1236]

I have slowly re- bedding the stanchions with butyl tape and so far so good. I have been using it for most deck bedding tasks or anywhere I need a water proof seal. Such as a wire passing through an opening etc.

http://www.westmarine.com/buy/blue-...am-with-stainless-steel-dress-cap--P014982508

 

[topcat0399]

I have slowly re- bedding the stanchions with butyl tape and so far so good. I have been using it for most deck bedding tasks or anywhere I need a water proof seal. Such as a wire passing through an opening etc.

A wire pass thru is one place I would not use butyl. Sure it works and I have done it in a temporary fashion but I would use a pass thru device or something like 4200....

 

[Brad on Vashon]

I'm in mild but rainy Seattle. I have to stanchions that have failed bedding and now leak. I was planning to rebed them one it warms up AND stays dry for a few days....the magical combo. So can I use this in moderately dry ( aka not pouring rain) and 40-50 degrees?

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

So can I use this in moderately dry ( aka not pouring rain) and 40-50 degrees?

Use a hair dryer on it to get the butyl into place as it's a little stiff when cold. Tighten it up slowly and then jab and pull at the excess around the edges when finished.