Looking for Tips on Re-Bedding the Hatch - 2005 280 Sundancer

[mjoplin]

New territory for me, I've spent a week or so researching, and am planning on rebedding the sun hatch this weekend. Would appreciate tips from anyone who's been down this road already. From what I've seen online a sealant, either Life Seal or 3M UV4000, is preferred over butyl tape due to flex and consistent bonding (and documented issues from the factory when they used it).

After looking at numerous posts and videos I do have one question. Can the hatch be removed without removing the sunshade/screen assembly inside? Nothing I saw on youtube or in posts provided any clarity there.

Also any tips on breaking the seal between the frame and deck would be appreciated. I've seen various uses of putty knives, wooden wedges, etc.

Thanks for any advice or tips.

 

[RollerCoastr]

I used dental floss to cut the old caulk. Everything inside stayed in-place. Per advice I found on a thread here, I was careful to let the caulk mostly cure before screwing down the hatch so you don't push the fresh caulk right back out.

 

[RollerCoastr]

I wish I could find that thread. There's a bit of art to it, but even on my first try I was able to get a perfect seal that has more staying power than the the factory method. I thought it was Dale's advice, but his blog doesn't describe the risk of cranking down on the hatch screws on wet caulk and leaving too little sealant to do the job. (a common mistake)

 

[mjoplin]

Thanks, I hadn't seen that one (dental floss). Sounds like a lot less potential for damaging gel coat while pulling it out. Glad to know I can leave the inside trim and screen in place. Good idea to let the seal cure for a bit prior to cinching down. The tips are much appreciated! I'll take pictures and post the results next week.

 

[b_arrington]

Thin mono fishing line can also work well for cutting the sealant. Often used to remove badging from cars.