Deck Section Bedding / Sealant

[mjf55]

So on my 1989 Chaparral Fisherman 224, there are 2 sections of the deck that are removable to get greater access to the hull, fuel tank, etc. I was thinking of removing one to get better access to replace the fuel filler and vent hoses. My question, what would I use to rebed those sections? Just butyl tape or should I use an adhesive/sealant like 3M 4000UV or 4200?

 

[jbcurt00]

Rebed them in sealant, and they'll be much tougher to remove later.

Are the removeable sections bedded now?

 

[mjf55]

jb, thanks for the reply. Yes, there is 'something' there now, on all the sections. Looks factory to me, as it (the seams) seams perfect. I have NOT poked or prodded at them as I don't want to disturb it until I know what I want to do. Not sure if those lines should be replaced, but it is 27 years old, so I was over-thinking again.

EDIT - I take it from your response, that a sealant would be inadvisable due to future needs?

 

[jbcurt00]

Actually. based on the pix, the panels look to be removeable, and I expected them to not be sealed w a sealant as much as some sort of gasket that allowed the panel to be waterproof (resistant) before and after opening and closing.

After 27yrs, perhaps a gasket would look like sealant, or even hold the panel firmly closed.

I doubt you'll know how they're 'sealed' until you pull one out, as it sounds like you havent yet.

I wouldnt use a real aggressive sealant (like 3M 4200) on anything that was intended as removeable like those hatches. 4200 isnt permanent like 5200, but its still a really aggressive sealant.

 

[mjf55]

jb, thanks. Yes, I agree that the panels are made to be removed. I'll stay away from the 4200, did not realize it was that aggressive. I know about 5200, but thought the 4200 would be appropriate.

If/When I tackle it ( probably will to refresh the fuel hoses), I may just rebed in butyl.