sealer for bronze port

twilk · #1 (**permalink**) 10-25-2003

I have to reseal a bronze port in a fiberglass boat.
What is the best material?
For economy I''d like to use the same product for bedding the bronze port to the boat and also for resetting the glass in the bronze frame.
Is silicone as good for both jobs or is 4200 a better choice?

sailnaway · #2 (**permalink**) 10-26-2003

I think you mean 3M 5200 but remember it is going to be in to stay for a long time so make sure it is sealed right the first time because if you have to pull it out it can be a real job. However you may be right I think they do have a 4200 maybe it is not as tough ????

mcain · #3 (**permalink**) 10-28-2003

I just went through this last winter--replacing and bedding 11 portlights in my boat. I did a lot of checking, including with several manufacturers, and found that professional installers use either 3M 4200 (polyeurothane) or 101 (polysulfide). (And I sail better than I spell........)
Do NOT use 5200--if you ever have to remove them, you will end up doing what I had to do to remove my plastic portlights--use a reciprocating saw. I used 101, and it has worked extremely well. One professional installer said--"I buy whatever is available at the time, 101 or 4200--both will work fine."
Good luck.