How to seal?

[2discover]

Hi all
I replaced the single lever controller, the shifter and the throttle cable on my 1999 H410. To get access, I had to remove the trim of the starboard aft compartment (see picture). To prevent water intrusion, the trim was sealed with a silicone caulk. Mechanically, 8 screws holding the trim in place.

This compartment is somehow important to access, since the generator and many other components can be accessed from there. The latched cover will just not grant sufficient access. Now and then, the trim needs to be removed.

I wonder, how the trim was sealed originally and how you seal the trim. I can't imagine, to cut away the caulk, clean the surface and re-caulk it every time I need to inspect the generators fuel filter etc. Is there a joint or a umber seal?

Thank you for your support!

 

[Sailgunner]

I have never taken that off to access the generator. I can go completely inside and do whatever is necessary. In fact one time the lid closed on me and latched. I put a bungee on it now so that doesn't happen again. Sorry, guess this doesn't help you much.

 

[2discover]

:cry:Ok, this would not work out for me, I'm 6'4" tall and even my shoulders would not fit in to the opening :cry:

 

[Ryan and ileana Bradley]

I would use Butyl Tape sold online by Sailrite. I used it for the first time about two years ago and was more than skeptical so I used it on a water fill deck fitting that I could periodically check for leaks from inside the head. In the Pacific Northwest there is never a shortage of wet weather, and I have to say I am impressed. It hasn't leaked a drop. The nice thing is it is playable, stays playable, and is easy to use and clean up. Since then I have used it on a dozen or more applications around the boat. (Oh and I don't miss my caulking gun!)

 

[Ryan and ileana Bradley]

One other thing I should mention, Butyl Tape is not a sealant that is meant to hold by itself. You need to have a mechanical means of attachment as well. Such as a station is attached with bolts and sealant. Butyl tape just replaces the sealant, if that makes sense. The benefit that there no mess or cure time as Butyl Tape stays playable for years.

 

[kloudie1]

Maine Sail has researched this a lot and offers a great butyl tape through his site:
http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/buy_bedit_butyl_tape

 

[2discover]

Butyl tape might do the job. I did use the one from Mainesail on several occasions. I'm just not sure whether it is suitabel for applications where the parts need to come on and off from time to time. At least it would be worth a try!

 

[Ryan and ileana Bradley]

That's where it works best. Easy to remove and easy clean up. I've used it on my binnacle to seal around the access to the chain, so I can open to inspect and service. I've used it to hold down the sirrius xm antenna, as I don't want it permanently mounted. Using little bits it even keeps the mirror on the bulkhead from rattling! A dab on the underside of the Wife's little trinkets or decorations keep them off the floor while heeling. Like I said before, I was super skeptical as I am a perfectionist, but it ranks right up there with duct tape!

 

[Ryan and ileana Bradley]

Not to mention I can get 5200 on just about everything but what I want it on!