Reseal windows

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J

JP

1987 26.5 We need to reseal the portholes this year and I have no idea whether the black stuff underneath (the original seal) should be replaced or whether I should simply caulk around the edges. Anyone with advice is greatly appreciated.
 
C

Crazy Dave

to fix or not to fix is the question

Often, I see folks taking on projects when they should have left it alone. If the windows do not leak, then leave them alone. IF you have to replace the caulking, try to get a fishing line inbetween the window and deck using it like a saw to cut the sealant. Once out, clean the area as best as possible of the old sealant. Then take tape and mask the area so if the new sealant oozes too far, then it goes on the tape. GM makes a black plastic sealant but I am not sure of the number; however, Dow Corning makes one which the number is 739 that I use. If you have any bend wheter be slight, you may have to put a wieght on it. Tape the window too. After applying the sealant, then spread it out for the finish look. Some use acetone but denatured alcohol works well too. Us old farts use spit which is cheaper. Make sure to have plenty of rags available. YOu can use acetone to clean up with but remember you cannot use it on lexan or abs plastics like the 216 and down. I am off to see the wizard, the wonderful wizard of OZ. I am in la la land this morning.
 
D

Dennis

The trick!

The trick to resealing the port lights is that after you re assemble the thing....dont immediately tighten everything down and squeeze out the sealant/bedding compound....let it set up first...then go back a day or so later and tighten everything down.....it will make a much better seal.
 
W

Wright Ellis

I did it

by removing the plastic windows, cleaning the existing black bedding seal with alcohol, then running a bead of black silicone marine sealant (3M) around the perimeter, just inside the outer edge. I also laid a bead arounf the port opening as a backup. No more leaks on my 26.5!
 
J

JP

One more question

So you left the original bedding material but added sealant? That sounds not too bad. Thanks!
 
W

Wright Ellis

One more thing ...

You will find that each screw has a tiny tubular gasket on it. My guess is they're available from Hunter, but I filled the screw holes with sealant before replacing the window plastic, then installed the screws.
 
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