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Sealing Compass

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Sam Cyphers
1st Mate

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USA
29 Posts

Initially Posted - 10/15/2012 : 16:27:36

Hi again, thanks everyone for all the help in the past! Im replacing my compass and Im guessing its best to cover the outermost (or as close to the outermost) ring with polysulfide and tighten it down?? Does that sound right? I just resealed my stanchions with the drill-epoxy-redrill method but the process isnt as analogous to the compass, so Im wondering what suggestions anyone might have to make it tight enough to protect the wood core? Or should I somehow epoxy the wood core as best as possible, which is also confusing and seemingly messy?

Edited by - on

OLarryR
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3467 Posts

Response Posted - 10/16/2012 : 03:32:59

When I removed my SR Mariner depthfinder and replaced it with a fishfinder on a RAM Swing Mount, I installed a Starboard circle on the outside and a starboard mounting board on the inside of the bulkhead which also served to mount the swing arm to cover up the existing depthfinder hole. I used 3M 4200 sealant and bolts thru the inside of the depthfinder hole for the installation. Then when I recently had my SR Mariner knotmeter fixed, I used 3M 4200 sealant again to complete the installation. By the way, the holes for both the knotmeter and the depthfinder, the core was like new with no water damage thru all the years the original equipment was installed.

In the case of installing a new compass (bulkhead mount) that you are planning to purchase, the compass mfr will have instructions for the proper installation. In most instances, the compass will come with a gasket and that may be all the mfr recommends for the installation. I would follow the compass mfr's recommendations and if it only calls for installing a gasket, I would secure it with only the gasket as it is likely if you in addition install with a sealant, you may interfere with the flush mounting prescribed by the mfr. However, you could apply sealant to the bulkhead core that is exposed as long as the sealant does not interfere with the install of the compass outer diameter. That would ensure the core is protected while still following the mfr's instructions for a proper compass seal with the bulkhead. Just ensure you tighten down the compass for a secure seal with the gasketing surface. (For example, I just checked out Ritchie's Venture Series bulkhead mounted compass and the mfr's instructions require installation of the compass with the gasket they provide.)

Edited by - OLarryR on 10/16/2012 03:35:24

Voyager
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
5377 Posts

Response Posted - 10/17/2012 : 16:28:43

Mine has a foam ring between the compass ring and the bulkhead. I remove mine every fall and take it home - since I've had a few compasses freeze and leak in the cold weather during CT winters. I replace it on the boat in the spring and use the same foam ring. If I were to bed it with polysulfide, I'd have a harder time switching it out each season. It never leaks