Cabin Water leaks

[warrenmarkus1]

My Seamaster sailer has a moulded grp headlining, and a water leak that driping fwd of the p2 window onto the cabin wall lining, and bulkhead. Don't think its the window as the leak is fwd of the window and the boat tilts the other way. Windows were resealed last year too. Hope it is not seawater as the boat is ashore!
No obvious entry points, talc has not helped. Can only get my fingers a few inches behind the headlining which is wet.
Removing the headlining is a massive job.
Was thinking of making some small cuts in the headling to try establish where the water is coming from, which can be later glassed over after the leak is fixed.
Before I get violent with the angle grinder, does any any one have any better ideas. Tempted to just let it leak, but I know it will drive me up the wall later on!!

 

[lw395]

Start by looking at the most loaded fastenings that go through the cabin: top-winches, jammers, etc. Look for any movement under load.
Or any wiring going through the deck?
Sounds like your headlining is pretty permanent.
While you're at it, think about the leaks that will start next year as all the sealant will probably be of similar age!

 

[alan17]

Read a method some years ago but I am doubtfull about the feasability.
Seal all obvious leaks to the outside. Apply soapy solution all over then pump air into interior. Look for bubbles. Rather like finding a puncture.
This would work but I cannot imagine it being practical to seal all known places where there must be a vent-log impellor, stern tube, dorades, anchor locker drain and chain hawse pipe, etc, etc-must be a mamouth task. Of course if you do it in the water you eliminate the need to tape up the under water points.
Be interested to know if you attempt this method as it seems to me that whatever way you go it is going to be an enormous task.
Another way would be to use a water soluble uv dye. Brush the solution over the suspected surfaces and then using a "black" light and goggles look for the tell tale traces but if they are behind the head lining you are still not going to be able to pinpoint without removing the headlining.
Best of luck!

 

[warrenmarkus1]

The UV dye idea sounds interesting. Can you reccomend what and where to get it. I am thinking of applying it to one item at a time, eg a window, and then checking to see any evidence of leakage. Theoretically I will be able to eliminate the possible sources.