Correct sealant to use

[reodds]

I have to remove the cover over the gas tank - to check it out, and reinforce if needed -

What caulking/sealant do you recommend when replacing the cover? Is a silicone (like GE Bath and Tub) o.k., or should I go with Life-Caulk or an other sealant?

Thanks

 

[RWilson2526]

I cant remember the type exactly but I used a 100% Silicone GE product....had UV and weather resistant written all over it....I think it was Lumbers boat that I stole this idea off of but I used clear silicone instead of white....with my gray floor it blends in really nice....its only been a few months so I cant give any testament to longevity but being that its so easy to keep an eye on if it starts to crack I can just redo it with something better but for now its looks great.

 

[joe7670]

I thought 4200 was recommended.

 

[reodds]

Does anyone know what kind of sealant Wellcraft used originally?

 

[RWilson2526]

http://www.wellcraftv20.com/community/showthread.php?t=9862&highlight=fuel+tank+cover

This is the thread that helped me make up my mind that maybe it didnt matter so much....Of course you cant go wrong with 3M marine products but being that getting to a marine store for me is kind of a hassle where I live and my boat with any luck will see the light of day maybe 50 days out of 365 I'm pretty sure 100% silicone with some UV inhibitors will outlast me.

 

[reodds]

Thanks! After doing some research, I think the key to any product is to lay a gasket bead first, put down the cover, and then caulk the seam on top of the cover.

As far as the material to use, as long as it is uv resistant, it doesn't seem to matter who makes it.

 

[Bonita Dan]

Any UV sealant will work. You could spend $15 friggin bucks at West Marine or go the home depot route for $2 bucks in something like a window and door sealant and be just as happy. That a 12pk. of savings in my eyes.

 

[tsubaki]

Reguardless of what you decide to use, this is how the White Lightning 3006 has held up so far.

The first picture is from with the initial installation sometime in 2007, caulking the edges between the Starboard and the sides of the boat.

The second was taken today, 3 years later.
Very little shrinkage, still pliable, little mildew, (likely) fairly easy to remove, such as a hatch cover seal.

(sorry the pictures ain't better)

 

[reodds]

Very nice tsubaki!

I learned a trick awhile ago while using rtv on an aircraft windshiled - use blue masking tape adjacent to the seam you are caulking. Place the caulk, and then immediately remove the tape. Perfect seams without any spill over or mess!