2023 Freedom 325 water in bilge

[GSnyder]

Hi Everyone - I'm getting water in the bilge when it rains. I have isolated the problem to the three deck hatches in the back. When it rains, they leak. The gaskets look worn and I just ordered replacements from Beckson. I was not treating them but will start with 303 Rubber Seal Protectant. I don't open these often - has anyone tried plumber tape or another solution in addition to the gaskets? Thanks!

 

[DennisG01]

As long as there's not so much tape that it prevents good contact with the o-ring, it can't hurt. But all that is really needed is cleaning/lubing them once or twice a year. 303 makes great stuff, but simple silicone grease will work better for water intrusion.

 

[GSnyder]

As long as there's not so much tape that it prevents good contact with the o-ring, it can't hurt. But all that is really needed is cleaning/lubing them once or twice a year. 303 makes great stuff, but simple silicone grease will work better for water intrusion.

Thank you!

 

[SkunkBoat]

On many boats they are really only for access to motor bolts.
If you don't need them to reach bilge pump or something important, you can just seal them with silicone