Portlight Seals

[Brian D]

Now that I am removing and rebedding my portlights, I also want to clean the rubber seal that provided the water tightness. I did a water leak test on my seals and I am getting some water incursion.

What solvent can I use to clean the rubber seal (gasket)?

As always, great site for great info.

 

[sd1953]

Why are you trying to clean them? Wouldn't it be better to replace them? If you are rebedding the portlights they have been in service for some time. The rubber has been compressed at this point so more likely to develop leaks where the rubber doesn't spring back all the way. If cleaning is really all they need, I would think that warm water and a gentle soap should do it.

 

[jimmcgee]

I learned this trick for stopping leaks in convertible tops many years ago and it works great for port lights.

Clean the seals with dish soap and water to remove any dirt buildup.

Rub Vaseline into the seals. I mean really take your time gently work it into the seal all the way around the port. Wipe off any excess glops of Vaseline and Let it sit for a good half hour or so then wipe them off again.

The Vaseline will swell the seals, and if they're not cracked or missing chunks you should have a good seal on your ports again.

Ours leaked with every rain when we got our boat. The Vaseline treatment got them to seal and I do it about every third spring now. Pick up a little travel sized jar of Vaseline for this job as you'll turn it black working on the seals. This job goes easier with a six pack.

Best of luck,
Jim

 

[Brian D]

SD1953, have looked for replacement gasket but could not find them. Still looking.

Jim, I heard about the Vaseline and tried it a long time ago but it didn't work. I guess I wasn't doing it right. So I will try your method. Thanks

 

[gettinthere]

I used silicone grease on my 25 year old gaskets 4 years ago. No leaks