[C320-list] Butyl Tape for installing fixed portlights located in hull below the rub rail

[Larry Frank via C320-list]

I am going to replace the fixed portlights located in the hull below the rub
rail. Has anyone used Butyl tape in this location? I have read where butyl
tape is not recommended below the waterline, and this is above it in the
slip. However, when sailing I have seen at least the lower portion in an
active splash zone and submerged for more than a few seconds. Someone may
ask why I am making this replacement. The portlights are badly crazed and
look very bad. One of them leaks at the horizontal seams which have been
repaired more than once using techniques from this group. They are 28 years
old and deserve to be put to rest.



Larry Frank

WindSwept

1995 C320 #246

[Jack Brennan via C320-list]

I’m not at the boat, but these are in frames, right? If so, you should be able to use butyl tape. With port lights that are not framed, you want to use the high-strength tape and Corning 795.

I had a leak in one of my opening ports once that turned out to be where the frame met the cabin side. The original sealant had reached its due date. Butyl tape fixed it right up.

Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.



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