[Public-list] leaks

[EddieDiver at aol.com]

All this conversation of bedding sail tracks keeps referring to silicone 
sealant. Practical Sailor and West Marine Advisor advises against using silicone 
on boats, in general, but certainly where there is standing water. Polyurethane 
is strongly recommended.

I re-bedded a polycarbonate (Lexan) "skylight" in my sliding companionway 
hatch 2 years ago. Because of the large expansion/contraction of the Lexan, I 
thought it prudent to go against the anti-silicone advice. Silicone does accept 
large movement. BAD move. As I wiped off the excess silicone alongside the edge 
of the Lexan, I accidently must have smeared it on the bare wood. The varnish 
absolutely refused to adhere to the bare wood. TMy silicone salesman friend 
said that many factories and shops, where painting is their business, forbid 
using silicone anywhere in their plant for fear of subsequent paint failure on 
their products

I finally discovered a liquid additive to put in the varnish to prevent the 
"fisheyes" where the varnish would not adhere. It is called "Smoothie" by 
Marson, Atlanta, GA. It is available at large automobile paint stores. A little 
drop will do it. (Sounds like Brill Cream for us old timers.)

Ed. Schroeder #303

 1112816236.0