Bedding for Deck Fittings

[kazz003]

Hi,

I've decided i need to remove, clean and re-bed most of my deck fittings (e.g. cleats, rod holders, canopy / ladder mounts etc). Previous owner used what appears to be normal household sealer which doesn't seem to be most effective. The surroundings of most deck hardware is constantly leaving rust stains on gelcoat which is difficult to clean (not to mention the damage potential leaks can be doing to the fiberglass).

What are your recommendations for re-bedding application sealant / procedure please? Looking for a good solution that will last!

Also, i removed some of the fittings and this obviously left some holes on the gunwales / console. Can you recommend someone who can do a good job at sealing / closing such screw holes and re-polishing to a finish matching the rest of the boat?

Thanks

[skip]

Probably people will mention Sika-Flex, but one has to bear in mind that is mean for bonding as well as sealing.

For a proper silicone sealer, I highly recommend Boat Life Silicone Rubber Sealer in White - it's expensive but its very good, available from Gauci Borda but I warn you, it's like 15 euro a tube.

They say if you want a proper seal you apply the sealer and bed the object, but you don't tighten it down too much. If you tighten it down you force most of the sealer out and reduce the amount of available sealer. If you let it cure and then tighten it down you compress against your new rubber silicone seal. (This would apply to rod holders, cleats, ladder mounts, well anything with screws or bolts).

This will definitely last, and best of all if you need to remove them, you aren't going to be hacking away which is what you end up doing with a bonding sealing like Sika-flex.

For your gunwale/console, have a chat with Buccanneer Boats who now focus alot of repair and customisation, or Boat Medic http://maltafishingforum.com/talk/index.php/topic,3438.0.html

Perhaps some others can recommend repairers. Let us know how you get on.

[kazz003]

Thanks for the reply.. Works in progress (yes taking it easy  ) but removed most deck hardware and cleaned surface. Looking for some replacement bolts and fasteners and want to make sure I get marine (316 - A4) grade SS. I've asked a couple of marine shops and they only get 304 (A2) (price reasons). Anyone knows where I can be guaranteed to find 316 ss?
Thanks

[skip]

What do Wurth Stock?

[kazz003]

Called them this morning. Mostly 304, on a few selection of hexagon bolts in 316.

[bigboy]

Try Salvatore Caruana @ Marsa

[shanook]

Exactly freedive...fasteners 304... I don't think you will actually find 316.