Newbie Boater

[DYLBOSS]

Hello. Just picked up my first boat this past weekend. 1996 Rinker Captiva 212 Cuddy, Merc 5.7 Alpha One. Boat is in good condition, and I got her for a steal. Had an experienced boater friend look it over for me. I do have a question though. There seems to be some water stains in the cabin on the ceiling and the starboard wall and bow wall. The ceiling is also damp to the touch. Does anyone know where this water might be getting in? Is this common? What would be the best way to address this?

Thanks.

 

[rbh]

Re: Newbie Boater

do you have a hatch that may be leaking?
rob

 

[DYLBOSS]

Re: Newbie Boater

I do, and was wondering that too, but the seal seems like it is in pretty good condition. I supposed it is worth a shot to replace the seal.

 

[Grand Larsony]

Re: Newbie Boater

Might be leaking through any of the screws holding stuff on the topside -- rail stanchion bases, horn, cleats, or through the hull to deck fitting (under the rub rail).

Remove every screw one at a time, squirt in some clear silicone (not too much) and replace. Don't do more than one - or a few - at a time but do them all.

Hull to deck joint is trickier, but same idea. Do the screws but also do the crack where the rub rail meets fiberglass top and bottom.

 

[Grand Larsony]

Re: Newbie Boater

As for hatch, pull it right off the boat, clean all surfaces, and rebed it properly with silicone. Also look carefully at the handles -- if they are attached to a post that goes through the glass, it may be leaking there too. Sometimes there is a rubber o-ring on the top side that should be replaced or greased (with proper lube, not vaseline). Replacing the gasket is last resort.

 

[Grand Larsony]

Re: Newbie Boater

Check anchor locker, too. Common spot for leaking.

 

[DYLBOSS]

Re: Newbie Boater

Thanks for all the great tips!