Leak in V-birth and main cabin - can't track it down

[FoggyBottom]

We have a pretty significant leak in two places, on the starboard side of the v-birth and main cabin. It's pooling up in the cubbies. Following Don Casey's book, we've reamed out the core and epoxied, re-bedded and sealed all the stanchions, cleats and blocks and took a shot at the portlight (not pretty but appears to be watertight). We did the same on the port side and were able to stop all the leaks but not the starboard leaks. Any suggestions as to what to go after next? Could it be the chainplate? I'm a little hesitant to pull the chainplate without some professional help but can't figure out where else it may be coming from.

[Mark1948]

Don't forget to check the plexiglass in your hatches, if you have them, the seal can go bad and you never notice it.

[PaulfromNWOnt]

I'm no expert, and I've never tried this before so take it for what it's worth.

If the only thing left is the chainplate, then grab some butyl putty and some poly sheeting. Wad the butyl around the chainplate, then cover it with the poly to keep from getting dirt in it. Have at it with the hose to check. I don't promise anything, but it shouldn't be difficult to eliminate the chainplate.

[micheck]

I have seen mentioned several times to pressurize the interior with a shop vac or like and coat the exterior with a soapy water mix to spot bubbles - see for example: How to find that leak! - I haven't tried it and it seems like a last resort but ...

Charles

[dorielle]

Depending on age of vessel , and if you have a P-31 Similar to my configuration , It is worth a full inspection and rebed . I had my 1989 chainplate inspected and rebedded and it was not a lengthy process . I found small water damage that was easily addressed so it was woth the day to fix . Good luck