how to reseal a deck filler - without access underneath

[simonfraser]

noticing that some of the deck fittings are not water tight any more, the deck filler for the water tanks is one likely issue
accessing the nut underneath is not an option with cutting an access hatch in the GRP
any smart ideas ?

 

[johnalison]

Assuming that it is not a major leak, I found Creeping Crack Cure very effective on a badly leaking window on a previous boat, though not everyone has been so successful.

 

[RupertW]

noticing that some of the deck fittings are not water tight any more, the deck filler for the water tanks is one likely issue
accessing the nut underneath is not an option with cutting an access hatch in the GRP
any smart ideas ?

Are you sure you can’t reach it from inside? I had something similar near one of the moulded-in heads compartments and eventually realised that the cupboard was removable - once I scraped away the smooth sealant and revealed the screws.

 

[simonfraser]

Are you sure you can’t reach it from inside? I had something similar near one of the moulded-in heads compartments and eventually realised that the cupboard was removable - once I scraped away the smooth sealant and revealed the screws.

if i remove all the batteries, water tank and support, i could crawl into the space, then need 1+m arms to reach upwards

 

[pvb]

noticing that some of the deck fittings are not water tight any more, the deck filler for the water tanks is one likely issue
accessing the nut underneath is not an option with cutting an access hatch in the GRP
any smart ideas ?

Are you certain that it has a nut underneath? The majority of deck fillers are fixed by screws from the top.

 

[rogerthebodger]

if i remove all the batteries, water tank and support, i could crawl into the space, then need 1+m arms to reach upwards

Several socket extensions may help to reach.

When fitting anything that I cannot reach I sometimes use a plate or ring with tapped holes so I can locate the plate then screw the fitting down from above.

Holding the plate in place with string or wire also helps to get screws n from top.

I did this on my GRP dingy when fittieb items in the gunnel cavity where the wa not even space for a finger to get in.

 

[Poignard]

Assuming that it is not a major leak, I found Creeping Crack Cure very effective on a badly leaking window on a previous boat, though not everyone has been so successful.

It certainly is worth a try. I have been surprised at how effective it can be.

 

[simonfraser]

It certainly is worth a try. I have been surprised at how effective it can be.

that's def the first try

 

[Plum]

noticing that some of the deck fittings are not water tight any more, the deck filler for the water tanks is one likely issue
accessing the nut underneath is not an option with cutting an access hatch in the GRP
any smart ideas ?

Many GRP boat manufacturers only use self tapping screws for many deck fitting (not mooring cleats) so your water filler should be easy with no underdeck access. If in doubt about what is underneath use two phones with a remote camera app. One phone taped to a stick with the image viewable on the other phone via wifi.

Www.solocoastalsailing.co.uk

 

[VicS]

Are you certain that it has a nut underneath? The majority of deck fillers are fixed by screws from the top.

My thinking tpp. Both the deck fillers I've had were fixed with self tapping screws.

But
to make a "proper job" of resealing it you may need to access the connection to the hose unless there is plenty of slack or you can disconnect the hose from the tank.

Captain Tolley's well worth a try.

It might be a good opportunity to replace the manky old hose between the filler and the tank!

 

[rogerthebodger]

Many GRP boat manufacturers only use self tapping screws for many deck fitting (not mooring cleats) so your water filler should be easy with no underdeck access. If in doubt about what is underneath use two phones with a remote camera app. One phone taped to a stick with the image viewable on the other phone via wifi.

Www.solocoastalsailing.co.uk

Or A waterproof endoscope as discussed here. Does not need to be waterproof for this application.

http://www.ybw.com/forums/showthread.php?528611-Waterproof-endoscope

 

[simonfraser]

hm, don't think it has screws, but will climb up there and have a second look.

 

[Poignard]

Or A waterproof endoscope as discussed here. Does not need to be waterproof for this application.

http://www.ybw.com/forums/showthread.php?528611-Waterproof-endoscope

That looks useful. I'm tempted to buy one to explore previously unseen parts of my boat.

But, on the other hand, do I want to find more things to add to an increasingly long worklist? :ambivalence: