Resealing Bomar Hatch Lens

[Project_Mayhem]

I'll be removing the lens of my hatch to replace the gasket. I have Dow 795 and a new gasket. I've done some reading on this and noticed some discrepancies. I assume the procedure is along these lines?

1. Remove lens
2. Clean old sealant off lens and frame
3. Tack gasket in place on the frame with super glue
4. Apply 795 on outer perimeter of lens
5. Apply some weight and tape to the outside of the whole assembly to keep lens in place while the 795 cures

 

[thinwater]

Yup, about like that. I've done a half dozen lenses.

2a. Use DeBond. Really helps with the residue. And a wire brush and a hose pick for the grooves. Rinse with water.
3a. Masking tape on the frame and lens.

 

[Project_Mayhem]

Perfect! Thank you! Is there any benefit to putting sealant between the gasket and the frame?

 

[danooxnard]

Have lacquer thinner ready for clean up and put tape on any thing you don't want 795 on. I learned this on my Cat22 windows!
Dano

 

[Project_Mayhem]

I'll likely remove the lens frame from the boat. It's four pins holding in place if I remember correctly

 

[kloudie1]

Interesting note:
The Bowmar hatches on my 1985 do not have gaskets, the lenses are bedded in the frame with sealant. I replaced the lenses 9 years ago and rebedded them with 795. All good.

 

[jibes138]

I used butyl tape for a gasket to bed the lens. Followed by 795 to fill the gap between the lens and the frame.
Those headlight restoration kits at auto stores work well to restore faded plastic hatch lenses.
its basically just fine sandpaper, rubbing compound and wax. Worth a try to extend the life of the plastic.