Sealing around Hull bilge vent on 380 Sundancer.

Haden

Haden

Active Member
May 27, 2020
482
Madison, Alabama
Boat Info
2001 Sea Ray 380 Sundancer
Engines
Twin 8.1l Mercury w/V Drives
I’m going to replace the starboard fuel fill line, and the only way to access one end of the fuel line is through the hull bilge vent on the outside of the boat. What would be the best or recommended sealant to calk/reseal the vent?
upload_2020-10-2_21-47-52.jpeg
 
I'd just like to find access to the manual that you got the instructions from! Lol
 
Haden said:
I’m going to replace the starboard fuel fill line, and the only way to access one end of the fuel line is through the hull bilge vent on the outside of the boat. What would be the best or recommended sealant to calk/reseal the vent?
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Well, if no one else responds with a more expert opinion, I'd suggest 3M 4200. I've used it for several applications with great success. And the ad speaks for itself...

https://www.amazon.com/3M-Marine-Adhesive-Sealant/dp/B01CDWJLHU
 
bbwhitejr said:
I like the Boat Life products and Life Seal is what I used to reseal mine on our 44DB.

Bennett
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About to reseal my 44db hull vents. Quick question did you seal all the way around the vent? Part of me thinks it should be able to drain at bottom.
 
cls3934 said:
About to reseal my 44db hull vents. Quick question did you seal all the way around the vent? Part of me thinks it should be able to drain at bottom.
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I did not do the bottom for no other reason than water was not entering the bilge from the bottom side. If memory serves me, I had rain/wash water getting in the bilge.

Bennett
 
Exactly my issue. When I rinse boat or it rains the water funnels off deck and over and behind rear of vent. The water ends up getting behind vent and flowing into my forward engine room bilge. So no issues for you since rebedding?
 
cls3934 said:
Exactly my issue. When I rinse boat or it rains the water funnels off deck and over and behind rear of vent. The water ends up getting behind vent and flowing into my forward engine room bilge. So no issues for you since rebedding?
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I sold the boat about 18 months ago and the bilges were completely dry and had been for some time. Yes, this is one place water can get in.

Bennett
 
Sorry for all the questions but did you actually remove your vents or just seal top from outside? I have removed my vents. Can't figure if I want to seal all the way around or leave bottom without sealant to drain water. I am leaning seal all the way around.
 
cls3934 said:
Sorry for all the questions but did you actually remove your vents or just seal top from outside? I have removed my vents. Can't figure if I want to seal all the way around or leave bottom without sealant to drain water. I am leaning seal all the way around.
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I did not. I just caulked from one end to the other on the top side. It completely stopped water from getting in. You say to "leave the bottom without sealant to drain water..." where will the water come from that needs to drain? I did not seal the bottom of mine solely because it was a pain and I saw no need in it.

Bennett
 
I agree if I do it right drainage should not be an issue. The vents are off boat so they will get a new fresh rebedding all the away around. Thanks for the help.
 
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