3M 5200 Marine Sealant et al
I currently go over my camper religiously looking for chances of leakage at least every six months. Seams on the roof, windows, etc. are checked for any signs of cracked sealant or separation. I treat...
Forum Discussion
Ranger Tim wrote:
When I was on the east coast I grew up using the 3M sealants for marine industry, notably 5200 and 4200 caulks that came in squeeze tubes and cartridges. These lasted for many years in salt water. They would also go through season after season of abuse from freezing and vibration. I can't believe there is anything that vibrates and moves more than a boat pounding the waves. Those sealants are tough, last for a long time and don't let go. I even used them to mount lighter weight things to fiberglass hulls with no screws with success.
A lot of world cruisers HATE 5200 !
First, let's start by saying all caulks/sealant fail. Some last longer that others, but they all fail. Proper preparation will make them last longer, but still, they will fail.
Many (most) world sailing cruiser will bed things in butyl tape. It stays pliable for a long time. Any "squeeze out" can saved and reused. If the seal fail, remove the item and the butyl, clean and re-apply butyl tape. Butyl is not an adhesive.
Second, once 5200 is on a surface and cured, it is next to impossible to remove. If you need to re-seal something, it ALL must be removed. There is no solvent (that I know of) that will remove 5200 although low heat makes it easier to scrape.
Last, the RV industry uses what is CHEAPEST.
