Stingray 234 outboard leaking at trim tab mounts

[kasperga]

Our boat is a 2019, purchased in 2020 and has been leaking since day 1. We have narrowed it down to the trim tab mounts, both sides. Pump goes on around every five minutes and spits out about a gallon (guestimate). Removed all the screws and resealed with silicone. Still leaks. 2 of the screws were stripped out. All of the holes are drilled clear through the transom. Very little sealant. factory installed. I am worried that the transom is rotting. Boat is kept on a lift. We've burned through 2 bilge pumps in a year. Anyone run into this or know how to fix it?

 

[3rdtimesthecharm]

Why not take it to a dealer if you suspect it was factory installed??

 

[Scott Danforth]

silicone has no place on a boat.

trim tabs should be sealed with 3M 4000 UV or 5200

agreed, take it to the dealer, document the issue, get it fixed right.

 

[kasperga]

silicone has no place on a boat.

trim tabs should be sealed with 3M 4000 UV or 5200

agreed, take it to the dealer, document the issue, get it fixed right.

I called the boat manufacturer who said that I should pull out the screws and inject the holes with silicone.

 

[southkogs]

Manufacturer probably didn't install the trim tabs. They are "rigging" that was more likely put on at the dealer level. I'd get with the dealer as recommended.

 

[kasperga]

Manufacturer probably didn't install the trim tabs. They are "rigging" that was more likely put on at the dealer level. I'd get with the dealer as recommended.

Thank you but the dealer is no longer affiliated with the manufacturer. I am on my own now. Was hoping that someone out there had some prior experience with this problem and how to fix it. Btw, my paperwork says factory installed.

 

[Scott Danforth]

youre still under warranty, go to another stingray dealer

 

[dingbat]

trim tabs should be sealed with 3M 4000 UV or 5200

I wouldn't use either to seal screw holes below the water line. The stuff (5200) makes great “gaskets” but has limited use as a thread sealer

Installation instructions (Bennett) call for installing the trim planes with stainless steel screws dipped in marine epoxy.

https://bennetttrimtabs.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/trimtab_es2000_installation.pdf