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Sealing bolts that go through an aluminium boat hull is a common problem for boat owners. There are a number of ways to do this, including using a sealant such as epoxy or marine silicone, or using a washer to seal the bolt head. Some people recommend using a single bolt through the centre of the hole, while others suggest using multiple bolts around the circumference.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Method | Use a single bolt through the centre of the hole |
| Use multiple bolts around the circumference of the hole | |
| Sealant | 5200 |
| Epoxy | |
| Polysulfide | |
| Bostic | |
| Marine silicone | |
| Washers | Aluminium |
| Neoprene |
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What You'll Learn
Using a single bolt through the centre of the hole
Sealing bolts that go through an aluminium boat hull can be done in a few different ways. One method is to use a single bolt through the centre of the hole. Here's how to do it:
First, clean the area around the hole thoroughly to remove any old sealant or debris. This will ensure a strong seal. Next, you'll need to create a spacer to fit inside the hole. Cut an aluminium spacer that fits snugly inside, and sandwich it between two larger-diameter aluminium washers. This will provide a strong, secure base for the bolt.
Now, it's time to seal the bolt itself. You can use a variety of sealants, such as epoxy, marine silicone, or an adhesive sealant like 5200, which is specifically designed for use below the waterline. Coat the bolt generously with your chosen sealant, and then insert it through the hole, ensuring it passes through the washers and spacer.
Finally, tighten the bolt securely, being careful not to over-tighten it. This will compress the sealant and create a watertight seal. You can also add a neoprene washer to seal the bolt head and provide extra protection.
This method provides a strong and secure seal, preventing water intrusion and ensuring the safety of your boat.
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Sealing the bolt holes with epoxy
Before applying the epoxy, it is important to clean up any old sealant and gently hit the holes with a countersink (inside and out) to hold a little sealant (like an O-ring) right at the bolts. You should also coat the inside of the holes and the lengths of the bolts with a good sealant.
After the epoxy has been applied, allow it to set up before putting the bolt back in place. This will ensure a strong seal and prevent any water intrusion.
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Using a sealant like Polysulfide or Bostic
Sealing bolts that go through an aluminium boat hull is a fiddly but important job. One sealant that can be used is Polysulfide or Bostic. Before applying the sealant, it is important to clean up any old sealant. For a half-inch bolt, drill a 9/16 or 5/8 inch hole. Then, gently hit the holes with a countersink (inside and out) so as to hold a little sealant (like an O-ring) right at the bolts. Next, coat the inside of the holes and the lengths of the bolts with a good sealant. Install the bolts from the inside to the outside, tightening the nuts without allowing the bolts to turn (allowing the bolts to turn will displace the sealant from the holes). It is also important not to over-tighten the bolts (30 or 35 foot-pounds is plenty).
One user on a boating forum recommends using a single bolt through the centre of the hole, rather than four or more around the circumference. They recommend using 5200 as the sealant, which is an adhesive sealant for below the waterline. It sticks to everything from painted parts to fibreglass to stainless and aluminium.
Another user recommends using epoxy to seal the bolts. They recommend dipping foam in the epoxy and pushing it through the bolt hole a couple of times. Then, use 4200 to seal it. They also recommend letting the epoxy set up before putting the bolt back in place.
A third user recommends coating some screws (aluminium or stainless) with some good marine silicone and putting the screw in the old holes and leaving them in. This will seal the holes and means that the screws can be used again in the future.
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Covering the hole with an aluminium spacer and washers
Before putting the bolt in place, you may want to seal the bolt holes with epoxy or another adhesive sealant. This will prevent water intrusion into the transom core. You can also coat the screws with marine silicone to seal the holes.
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Coating screws with marine silicone
Sealing bolts that go through an aluminium boat hull can be done in a number of ways. One method is to use a sealant such as epoxy, polysulfide, Bostic or 5200. You can coat the inside of the holes and the bolts with the sealant before installing the bolts. Another method is to use a single bolt through the centre of the hole rather than multiple bolts around the circumference. A neoprene washer can also be used to seal the bolt head.
To coat screws with marine silicone, you can simply apply the silicone to the screws and then insert them into the holes. This will seal the holes and prevent water intrusion. It is important to ensure that the new bracket will clear the heads of the screws. You may also need to clean up any old sealant before applying the new silicone.
When coating screws with marine silicone, it is important to use a high-quality product that is designed for use in marine environments. The silicone should be able to withstand exposure to water, salt, and sunlight. It should also be flexible enough to accommodate any movement or vibration in the screws.
To apply the marine silicone, start by cleaning the screws and the surrounding area to remove any dirt, grease, or debris. This will help the silicone adhere properly to the screws. Next, apply a thin coat of silicone to the screws, making sure to cover the entire surface. Use a brush or roller to ensure an even application.
Once the silicone is applied, allow it to cure completely before using the screws. The curing time will vary depending on the product and the environmental conditions, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Once cured, the silicone will form a strong, waterproof seal around the screws, helping to protect them from corrosion and ensuring a long-lasting seal.
By following these steps and using a high-quality marine silicone, you can effectively seal screws in an aluminium boat hull, providing a durable and watertight barrier that will protect your boat for years to come.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a sealant such as epoxy or marine silicone.
Epoxy is a good option, as is 5200, which is an adhesive sealant for below the waterline. Polysulfide or Bostic are also used in some boats.
You can dip foam in the epoxy and push it through the bolt hole, or coat the inside of the holes and the lengths of the bolts with a good sealant.
