Sealing outboard - transom bolt holes..?

[444]

I have to take my outboard off, at least partially, to get my new steering cables in and get the old ones out. No other way to do this and I do have an engine hoist so it's not a big deal. But I'm wondering, what's the best way to seal up the bolt holes in the transom when I go to reinstall the outboard? I of course want to keep water out of there. The previous owner had the engine off and it looks like he just went to town with the silicone when it came time to put it back together. Is that the preferred way to do it?

 

[DJ]

Re: Sealing outboard - transom bolt holes..?

I use 3M 5200.

 

[levi_tsk]

Re: Sealing outboard - transom bolt holes..?

yeah 5200 will hold up better than regular silicone

 

[stjernefodt]

Re: Sealing outboard - transom bolt holes..?

If it's permanent, then 3M 5200. If you plan to remove or raise the engine later, and don't want the paint to come off or otherwise mar the transom, use 3M Fast Cure 4200. I used that when repowering my Lowe main engine, as well as on a Garelick kicker bracket. It's designed for below the waterline applications. No problems so far with my boat.

 

[444]

Re: Sealing outboard - transom bolt holes..?

Well I don't plan on taking the OB off again after this. Boat is being repainted at the same time so this should be it. I will start looking to see where I can get me some of the 3M 5200. Thanks guys!

 

[seahorse5]

Re: Sealing outboard - transom bolt holes..?

Both the Johnson and Evinrude rigging manuals say NOT to use a sealer-adhesive like the 3M 5200. Something like 4200 or BoatLife Life Calk are better choices. LifeCalk will cure even if the wood is wet or if the boat is put in the water right away.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Sealing outboard - transom bolt holes..?

Well I don't plan on taking the OB off again after this. Boat is being repainted at the same time so this should be it. I will start looking to see where I can get me some of the 3M 5200. Thanks guys!

Home depot sells small tubes.

Both the Johnson and Evinrude rigging manuals say NOT to use a sealer-adhesive like the 3M 5200. Something like 4200 or BoatLife Life Calk are better choices. LifeCalk will cure even if the wood is wet or if the boat is put in the water right away.

5200 will also cure while wet