I have an 1989 184. What sealant should I use to seal the transom at the top?
I have an 1989 184. What sealant should I use to seal the transom at the top?
At the top under the trim piece i would use 3m 5200 or 3m 4200 for bolts going thru transom i would use 3m 4200.
Bruce Phillips
1995 190 DC champion ......1995 200 xri merc
Do NOT use 5200 for mounting bolts, it's more adhesive than sealant. You don't know pain until you try to get 5200 off of something.
Pat Goff
Two degrees from center
of nowhere.
Smithwick TX.
So use the 3m 4200 for all applications?
I used Boat Life caulk on mine.
I find boat life easier to use and a quality sealant. The 3M seems like a bit of an overkill, plus life caulk adheres to wet surfaces easier.
2005 206
BRP 225 H.O. (E225DHLSOF)
Fury 4 24p @ 5,750 fully loaded
I will second 3M 4200. I found it much better to place the tube of 4200 near heat or in the sun on warm days a good while before using. Makes it a good bit easier to work with.
I actually prefer GE silicone for sealing motor bolts. It is thinner and I think it lives longer.
Regardless I reseal every 5 years. You should too.
Pat Goff
Two degrees from center
of nowhere.
Smithwick TX.
Star Brite Marine silicone is a favorite!
1994 201 Champ re-powered with a 250 HO G2 E250LHAFA 05438419
How long would you guys suggest cure before heading out on the water again?
MAKING DONATIONS TO GREAT FISHERMAN EVERY WEEKEND
2005 CHAMPION 188 ELITE
Cure times are on the tube for the product you select.
Which GE Silicone do you suggest, Pat?
Here’s a tip on silicone. With a new tube, always lay out a little test blob before you start your project. Give it a 30 minutes to an hour to firm up a bit. If it doesn’t you can give it a little more time but you should know that sometimes tubes are bad and won’t cure no matter how long you wait. Don’t ask me how I know....
1994 201 Champ re-powered with a 250 HO G2 E250LHAFA 05438419
If it is the inside of the transom, use 5200. It takes 1 week to cure but it will cure your issue. Very strong stuff - like steel. make sure you put a heater to the transom to be sure it is dry before hand. heater and hair dryer is what I used and letting it sit in the open for some time. do not take a short cut with the curing process. 1 week minimum. In essence take your time and it will work better in the long run.
I can’t think of anything to do with a boat that I would use 5200 on.
1994 201 Champ re-powered with a 250 HO G2 E250LHAFA 05438419
1997 ChampioN Elite 202
1997 200HP Mercury EFI
Also...Debond 2000 will remove cured 5200
3m Marine Sealant selection chart
s-l640.png