Which sealant for bedding a replacement fairlead

[jaminb]

After my anchor broke free I am in the process of replacing a very damaged fairlead. Amazingly I have been able to buy an exact replacement, get the old one off and remove the two studs from the old fairlead for reuse. AWB with fibreglass decks.

The original fairlead appears to have been bedded on bathroom silicone and was relatively easy to prize free compare with modern day structural sealants.

What would the forum suggest I use to rebed the new fairlead on? Can I reuse the existing dried sealant or should it be stripped off? There are just the two stud holes that need sealing, would Sikaflex 291i be overkill for a bedding and too strong? Any suggests for removing the old silicone? I could really do with something quick setting as I want to go sailing immediately after I have fitted.

Many thanks in advance

 

[Keith-i]

I use butyl tape under my deck hardware. Never sets so remains waterproof even if things move a bit.

 

[Hacker]

+1 for butyl. You really do not want anything ”quick setting before sailing”. Put butyl under the fitting and around the bolt/screw holes, also put some around the head of the bolt/screw. Tighten down and remove squeeze out. Go sailing and check the tightness a few times. Excess butyl will continue to squeeze out for a period of time.

 

[PetiteFleur]

I also use Butyl tape - excellent stuff.

 

[Boathook]

I use butyl out of a tube. Works well.

 

[jaminb]

Thanks all. So no need for a structural glue?

 

[vyv_cox]

Main point is that all traces of silicone need to be removed. Not sure that butyl needs to cure but polyurethanes and paints may never cure if contaminated by silicones.

 

[PCUK]

I use Saba Deck adhesive for everything. Or CT1if I run out.

 

[stuartwineberg]

I use butyl tape under my deck hardware. Never sets so remains waterproof even if things move a bit.

+1. remarkable stuff

 

[Refueler]

I am quite brutal when it comes to fittings.

If they are to be permanent and no intention of lifting again - I actually use Seawater Proof PU Glue. Why ? This expands - foams up to seal every nook and cranny of any hole used to fasten an item. Its strong - but still able to 'break out' bolts etc later if really needed.
I don't obviously promote this to other boats surveyed etc .... but its something that I apply to my own .. I have never had any fitting 'bedded' with this ever leak !
Its not hard to clean up if fitting removed and then going to be refitted.

If the fitting has possibility that later on would be lifted - then of course a flexible sealant such as Butyl etc. would be used. But it all depends again on what is locally available.

 

[salar]

I use Saba Deck adhesive for everything. Or CT1if I run out.

I have a similar dilemma (see deck thread) - just wondering why you prefer Saba to Sikaflex?

 

[Pye_End]

Thanks all. So no need for a structural glue?

No. Inadvisable.