I use plain household stuff
I've used the plain house type silicone for the last 5 years. It does a good job, is cheap and comes apart easily if you need to pull the mast. I just put one bead way down deep and let it cure. After that cures I fill it completely with another thick layer. About 2 tubes at a cost of about $8 or so will do it. Mine originally had the rubber collar, but it was way too hardened to be any good. I still have a problem with rainwater coming down the center from the openings at the top of the mast, and more water coming down the electrical chase. I have a plan that I hope will cure these next time I pull the mast. At the deck level there is nothing inside the mast, it's just a hollow tube. If that was sealed it would stop water from making it to the bilge. I believe I can cut a thin piece of something - wood, plastic or whatever - that is the same shape as the inside of the mast. I can put some caulk on it, then push it up to just below the bolt that holds the mast at the deck level, maye using that bolt to stop it and locate it just at the right place. I'll let that cure, then push another similar piece up with enough caulk or silicone on it to seal the spot. Then I'll have to drill a small weep hole just above it so the water can escape. This should take care of the water coming down the mast. For the electrical tube, I'll cut the cover of the electrical chase right at the deck level, install the top part, then caulk the open (bottom) end, getting it all around the wires making a tight seal.I'll then shove the lower part up to it into more silicone. This should make a water tight seal of everything right at the deck level. If anyone has thoughts on this I'd like to hear them. If I ever get the mast out again and try it, I'll report back with my results. Gene Gruender rainbow_chaser@compuserve.com http://www.geocities.com/thetropics/cabana/7414
