Best caulk for a Westcoaster?

[brewer]

I have an 18 ft. Westcoaster that leaks. I think I found out where. It is missing the chalk there and other areas. I just want to re-chaulk the whole thing.

What would be the best chalk to use? This boat is in salt water only.

Thanks.

 

[lckstckn2smknbrls]

I would recommend re-bucking any leaky rivets and sealing the rivets and seams with a product called Gulvit.

 

[brewer]

It's a welded boat, no rivets.

 

[lckstckn2smknbrls]

Have the leak welded.

 

[rickybobbybend]

First off, welcome aboard, brewer; glad to have you here. Westcoaster is a line of very solid welded tins. I am not sure about "chalking". You may be referring to caulking. If that is the case, then the advice above is right on, find the specific location(s) leaking and weld. Be sure to check for any cracks and serious dents that might be source. One way to check for leaks is to put a few inches (only) of water in the boat and check underneath for the leak. Having the tin on a trailer or other support make this more convenient. Let us know what you find. Rick

 

[brewer]

Thanks I didn't realize I wrote chalk. I meant caulk. I did think I found the leak, because it leaks and was on my trailer with water in it. It is missing caulk there. What would be a good marine grade chaulk? I won't be welding it, it's in Mexico.

Thanks.

 

[rscottp]

brewer » 10 Apr 2014, 10:05[/url]"]Thanks I didn't realize I wrote chalk. I meant caulk. I did think I found the leak, because it leaks and was on my trailer with water in it. It is missing caulk there. What would be a good marine grade chaulk? I won't be welding it, it's in Mexico.

Thanks.

3M 5200.

 

[brewer]

Ah yes, 5200. I used that many times. It's messy. What's the best way to apply? Just cut the tip end to a smallish hole, apply, and mash in with a finger?

Thanks.

 

[T Man]

Ah yes, 5200. I used that many times. It's messy. What's the best way to apply? Just cut the tip end to a smallish hole, apply, and mash in with a finger?

Thanks.

Don't even mash it in. It will self level, and find it's way into the hole if its big enough. Make sure you adequately and thoroughly clean and rough up the area first and do not use alcohol as a cleaner. I used acetone and had a good bond.

 

[brewer]

it's on a trailer, so I don't think it will flow in. I'll have to push it in somehow.