Putting things back on the boat

Drivewayboater2

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 21, 2019
Messages
334
Just about ready to start reinstalling trim tabs. I’ve epoxied up the old holes. Now it’s time to redrill and put things back. What’s the best way to seal the screws as I reinstall? Any guidance would be appreciated.
 

dingbat

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Nov 20, 2001
Messages
16,066
Unless they revised the instructions since I installed mine, Bennett recommends 30 minute marine epoxy for the screws
 

vetting

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Dec 9, 2012
Messages
192
I've done about 5 sets of trim tabs.
My steps are.
Predrill
Put all of the screws half way without the tabs to make sure its not going to chip anything out.
Remove screws and squirt 4200 into the holes. Leave a blob on the outside (this will basically turn into a gasket when you tighten everything).
Cover the screw threads with 4200. WEAR GLOVES
Then install you tabs with the gooped up screws.
Then clean off as much extra 4200 as you desire.

Personally, if you use 5200 its going to rip gelcoat right off if you have to uninstall the tabs at some point. But thats an age old debate.
 

froggy1150

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Nov 3, 2017
Messages
843
I will say this... if I need to glue something permanent, anything not just boat related that's my goto. Just bought replacement stones for my engine hone and 2 came off almost right away..... 5200 to save the day! The only way to clean off cured 5200 is with a grinder
Fwiw
 
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