Water Intrusion in the Steering Quadrant

[Stephen K]

Update - we have had decent rain since I put in a test "gasket" to help seal this area. I lifted the access panel this past weekend and did not find near as much water or debris in the area. I was using the 1/16 in. thick cork, but have determined that the the 3/32 in. thick piece of rubber will work even better (and not raise the panel to high). The gasket kit is part #4035499 at Ace hardware (you may need 2 packages). To install, cut the rubber into 1"x 6" strips. Arrange and cut the strips to fit along the lip of the compartment (I am going to use a bit of silicone to adhere the strips in place). Next, put the cover back on and use an ice pick thru the screw hole to make a small pilot hole in the rubber gasket. The final step is to screw the cover back in place...as you tighten the screw, you should "feel" the gasket making contact. Debris will still accumulate in the gap between the deck and the access cover, but the gasket should keep it from entering the quadrant area. Let me know what you think and if this works for you as well.

 

[cmorin]

window sealant

Hey Stephen,We had the same issue with our C-30. Debris would some how collect under the plate, clog the drains, and back up water that would eventually enter the bilge. I removed the plate, ran water from the hose directly into the drains to make sure they were clear. I bought a tube of window sealant (I think it was some form of silicone) from Lowes. It is a pressurized tube that has a nozzle, it comes out like cheese wiz. I ran a bead around the opening, put the plate back on, tightened the screws, and than put another bead of silicone around it. This has worked now going on three years. When it did this I greased up the cables and quadrants really well but I think it could be something I should redo this year. Good luck,