best epoxy for holes above and below waterline....

[bobbo268]

If i'm drilling holes for wiring, whether above or below the waterline, whats the best epoxy (or whatever product) that is readily available (home depot, walmart, lowes, west marine) for making sure the holes are water tight and stay water tight?

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: best epoxy for holes above and below waterline....

3M 5200 is available here at HD, 3M 4200 is semi-permanent rather then the permanent 5200, and not available here @HD.

Depending on whether you think you ever want to remove either... I seem to remember someone mentioning that they found 1 or the other at walmart. Never been in a West Marine store, might have it, a call or online search should let you know if they do.

I got the 5200 at HD on sale for @$11-12 per 10oz tube (normal caulking gun sized)

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: best epoxy for holes above and below waterline....

If I understand you correctly you are drilling fairly large "Chase" holes to run wires etc.. and want to "Waterproof" the innerplys of the wood. If this is the case, then I'd use the 5 min epoxy that comes in the double tube or bottles. Sold @ all the Big Box stores and Ace Hardware.

Just out of curiosity...What holes for wiring would you be making "Below the Waterline"?

 

[pauloman]

Re: best epoxy for holes above and below waterline....

wet dry 700 (tm) epoxy paste from EpoxyUSA.com - can be applied underwater even. Has saved a number of sinking boats and leaking swimming pools. (and carried by offshore sailers). reinforced with kelvar. I've used it to coat/seal battery and electrical connections (especially for the bilge pump!)

paul

 

[Auger01]

Re: best epoxy for holes above and below waterline....

Another redily avalible option the the west marine 105 epoxy. It is not the cheapest option, but it will do what you want to do and it is a good epoxy to have around for general boat repairs.

 

[bobbo268]

Re: best epoxy for holes above and below waterline....

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Just out of curiosity...What holes for wiring would you be making "Below the Waterline"?

I was thinking about mounting lights on the outer transom near the motor, at the bottom, for looks and to see depth (along with fish finder)... instead of running the wires up the back (like the fish finder and speedometer).... is this a bad idea? i assumed thats how it was done. I'm new to boat "construction" but relatively familiar with common sense (usually), so if i'm looking at something wrong, please tell me!!

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: best epoxy for holes above and below waterline....

IMHO you want the fewest Below the waterline penetrations as possible. I'd run the lines on the outside of the transom.