Curing a leaky hull to deck joint on a Morgan 461

[TQA]

I am off to look at a Morgan 461 from the 70s and am aware that leaks in this area are common on these boats.

I think there is an inward turning lip on the hull, the deck is then screwed or bolted to that lip with some kind of sealant. A wooden toe rail then covers this area.

If it is leaking what fixes would you suggest. I am thinking that gooping a little silicone on is not going to cut it here.

[Sabreman]

Depending on the severity and location of the leaks, you may be able to simply tighten the through bolts. I had a similar problem is a very localized area and that fixed the problem. One bolt was stripped; I suspect that the PO had tried to fix the problem by over tightening. I rethreaded the bolt and it's been fine ever since. You are correct that silicone won't fix the problem.

There is no way that I would ever break a hull to deck joint in an effort to fix it. I'd either a) live with the problem or b) walk away. Just my $0.02......