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Boat Repair/rebedding portlights, hatches

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Expert: Jeff Grigg - 1/20/2008


Question
I have a hunter 27 sailboat with opening portlights with plastic frames and lenses.  The frame is in two parts clamping the cabin trunk wall between them with SS screws.  My two roof hatches are similar with plastic frames.  In trying to eliminate acouple of mysterious leaks I am planning to remove these and reinstall them.  What is the right methos of rebedding these?  I am using a 3M Marine Adhesive Sealant 4000 UV

Answer
Any sealant made for bedding fixtures will work. I don't have a 3M catalog here where I am so I can't comment on the 4000. For most of the work we do we use the 3M5200. which does take some time to cure or the 3M 5200 Fast Cure. Which does so in about a day. Both are great sealant and make a permanent repair.
Jeff

Boat Repair

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Jeff Grigg

Expertise

Can help with most any question related to outboards, high performance, hull repair, rigging, if it floats and uses a motor. From a 9.9 on a aluminum boat to DFI two strokes. Outboard motors are my specialty. I can help with some I/O questions as well. Ratings are the only way we know if we are helping. If you are pleased with the help, please rate us. 20% don't bother reading my answers! If you are not going to read the follow up then why ask? Keep in mind we do this at no charge and are not paid. We do it to help you!

Experience

32 years in the marine business. Own a service facility, in coastal South Carolina certified Master Tech by Johnson/Evinrude, certified Mercury/Force, Tohatsu/Nissan. Former technical director for DMI Pistons. 30 year racing career including 3 APBA Formula V National Championships

Organizations
AMTECH, APBA

Publications Written For
Boat & Motor Dealer, Car Classics, Custom Vans (tech articles), Miami News, powerboat racing column

Awards and Honors
Certified Master Technician Johnson/Evinrude

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