Rubrail as a source of top-side leaks.

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AD

I noticed two things about last year: 1. I have some leak topside, 2. My rub-rail isn't exactly smooth/flush all the way around the boat.... How likely is it that this is the source of the leak (from rainwater), and how easy etc is it to rectify? Thanks in advance, Adam PS: I know 5200 is my friend, just want to know the best way to go about sealing the rubrail if it IS the culprit.
 
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bruce cornell

rubrail

are you talking about the toerail on top of the deck, or rub rail on the side of the deck/hull seam... either one will prob require a friends help to repair since you may have to remove the rail to reseal. 5200 may be overkill. either way, once apart you can countersink the old holes a little so that the sealer will not be pushed out whild being tightened but form 'o'ring seals around the screw/bolt body. there is a 'wet' sealer that you just pour on the suspected area and it flows into the spaces to seal, west marine have it.
 
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AD

rubrail

I removed all the toe-rails last year, sanded/varnished/sanded/varnished/sanded/varnish then refitted with a goodly bead of caulk between the rail and the deck, and especially around the screws. What I am referring to in the original post is the two-piece plastic black and white rub-rail. The black insert is buckled a little bit here and there. I'm hoping to be able to peel it back/off, then place in a bead of caulk and refit with a rubber mallet to get it seated evenly. Just wanted to know if there is something 'accepted' for this maintenance item.... Regards
 
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Tim22962

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Jun 3, 2004
5
Oday 23 Port Haywood, Va
rubrail

I replaced mine last summer. The rail base (white holder) is attached to the top sole with stainless screws. You need to remove the insert (probably black), unsrew the base, then rebed the base and attach with new stainless screws. I would not, never ever, unless I was dumping the boat, use 5200 to bed the rail! You will never be able to easily and inexpensively replace it in the future. If you are going to the trouble of rebeding it, intalling a new base and insert is no additional effort. You can both of these from DRMARINE. Good Luck and Fresh Breezes
 
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bruce cornell

insert

to remove the insert, use your wifes hair drier to warm up the insert to make it flexible and removable without damage. don't heat too much, but will be easier than doing it 'cold'
 
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Adam18929

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Jan 5, 2004
44
Oday 23 Greenwich, NJ
You're right about...

...the 5200, I should definitely use 4200. Anyhow, not having a wife I'll try to covertly 'borrow' one from a sister? Anyhow, doesn't sound like too too bad a job--from the comforts of my office anyhow--but I'll look forward to solving the leak(s). Do let me know if there are anymore problems/tricks. AD
 
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