What caulk do I use to replace a stantion

[Ian McGain]

I just took off the winter tarp and found two of the one piece stantions on my '79 Hunter 30' colapsed and broken off at the base. I have just had them both welded ($30.00 each) and it looks like it worked and they look stronger than the rest still on the boat.The question is: When I bolt them back on, what type caulk do I use? Just a plain white or clear good multi-year silicone?Also when I removed the stantions, they had washers and not a plate. Washers ok on the inside of the cabin or fabricate a plate as a backing?Many thanksIan

 

[Steve Dion]

Don't use silicone

Ian:Use Lifecaulk, 4200 or one of the good quality caulks. This is a good example of why you don't want or need 5200. As far as the backing plate, a plate would be better, but the washers have done their job for 20+ years, must be OK. The deck is thick and washers should do the job. Besides, a plate may be very difficult to get into the area.

 

[David]

Stanchion

Multi year silicone is fine but expect to rebed every couple of years.Always use backing plates whenever possible. The deck is older, maybe wet and the stanchion has worked against it for over 20 years. Cleats and stanchions are important safety items and should be secured as well as possible. With new glass and core material some manufacturers will take a short cut.

 

[R.W.Landau]

Steve is right

Don't use silicone. It is a good gasket material anywhere but on a boat. It does not seal!Steve's advise on life caulk, 4200 or the like is long lasting and if done properly fairly easy.r.w.landau