Which sealant? (for centorboard bolt)

[Scubajeep]

I have a 1996 Hunter 23.5 that has had a minor centerboard issues.... bottom line is that I need to put a sealant where the bolt goes through the hull to the centerboard mount. (The bolt is above the water but due to splashing in the centerboard trunk water seeps in to the boat.....

So what kind of sealant should I use... silicone?

Thanks
Todd H

 

[kenn]

Before trying a sealant, I suggest trying some combination of stainless steel and plastic washers - eg a soft plastic washer against the trunk with the ss washer on top of it.

The plastic washer can be something cut from a piece of rubber sheet or inner tube, or a polyethylene jug, etc. Be sure that the inner hole of the plastic washer is tight to the bolt, or even undersize and force the bolt through it.

If this works, then you have a solution that you won't need to redo every time you turn the bolt.

 

[Barnacle Bill]

Generally for underwater use, you want to use a polysulfide caulk like Boat Life's Life Calk or 3M's 101. You said it was above the waterline, but got wet. It still would be good for that application. It is a thiokol based product that can be adhered to various surfaces and materials, stays flexible and is not an adhesive like 3m's 5200 which is what you don't want to use. Silicone might suffice, but is definitely not recommended for under water use.

 

[Scubajeep]

Thanks, for the info Bill.

Todd