Hunter 2000 340 Window - Resealing of window

[Presbrou1]

Hi boat owners,

I am trying to fix a window leak on the outside of my boat and see that the previous boat owner caulked around the window. Does anyone have tips on how to create a nice looking seal around the glass, and have it look like factory work? My caulking job was horrible, in fact it came right off after I peeled the blue tape off. I'm wondering if I need to remove all old caulk from the previous owner and start over? Thanks - Pres Broussard

 

[FastOlson]

Remove and re-bed the window. The OEM calk will usually start to fail after 20 to 25 years. Saturation of deck coring can set in after that, too . It's all part of scheduled maintenance on any boat.

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

Hi @Presbrou1 and welcome to site.

I'm wondering if I need to remove all old caulk from the previous owner and start over?

Yes, yes, and if I wasn't clear, YES. See here (post #2) for a full write up :

Window Leak on a 32.3

I have a 2006 Beneteau 32.3. The fixed skylight window is leaking in the corner. It could be a typical leak and be coming from an adjacent area. I had the 'yard' guys try to fix it last year but it still leaks. I am considering cleaning the silicon sealant out and taping off the area and re...

forums.sailboatowners.com

This is a repair method for small leaks and does not require full removal of the acrylic. The original DC 795 is 24 YO and still looks like new. It's an artsy sort of job so practice, practice, practice is the solution.

Heat and squeeze the DC 795 tip to ensure it is small enough to jam into the bottom of the groove. Leave no air in the groove. Pull off the tape IMMEDIATELY after smoothing out the bead. Experiment with a 2-3" section of cleaned out channel to get the hang of smoothing out the 795. Do it as many times as you want. When perfected, wipe out the liquid 795 and go to completion. Mine's been in place for a number of years and no leaks.

 

[kloudie1]

I found this very helpful: How To Install Fixed Portlights - YouTube
I did my side portlights this way with the addition of using some small positioning blocks that I hot glued to the cabin sides . I removed the blocks after the plexiglass was positioned onto the 3M VHB tape.