I'll Try again Ed!

[Steve Miller]

I'm changing portlights (all Gray extruded plastic) on my Hunter 30. The new ones I purchased to replace the old ones do not have screws for the external trim rings. What is the preferred method of installation, and what adhesive would you recommend. Is it necessary to use screws on the outside or is sealant required.

 

[Roland]

Replacing port lights

Steve, I have replaced two port lights on my '77 h30 and neither came with holes in the trim rings. I matched the two pieces together and drilled holes in the rings. This seemed to work just fine and matched the rest of the port lights. I'm not sure the trim rings would sit flush to the deck house any other way. Use a good sealant and don't be stingy with it. Do not use 3M 5200. Do take your time. Good luck.RolandS/V Fraulein II

 

[Jim Logan]

Where did you get your portlights?

Steve, did you get your new ports locally? IF not, where did you get them. Thanks

 

[Steve Miller]

Jim

I purchased the portlights at Thrifty Mariner. The price is great. They claim they are seconds, but the only defects that are visible are some minor blemishes (not noticible), on the glass surface. You really have to look for them. One third the price of new ones. None of the boxes had installation instructions. I can live with that for the savings.

 

[Chris Stone]

Try 3M 4200

I rebedded (not replaced) my ports last year and used 3M 4200 which seals nicely without the future removal problems of 5200. A couple of notes. Drill out the holes to use the "through-screw" system with the male and female phillips head screws. You then won't have to worry about stripping threads in fiberglass. After bedding the inside and outside trim rings, be careful when threading the male screw into the female part that you don't get bedding inside the female end. You won't be able to fully tighten the screw if you do because there is so little clearance inside. Also, be sure to have a cleanup solvent (*compatible with the particular plastic of the port*) to clean up excess bedding that gets on the port. Otherwise, you'll be wiping smudges forever.