Subject: 1966 Carver Cruiser Restoration
Date: Tue, 19 Jan 1999

Doc,

After exploring for serious rot, I have not found anything really life threatening in or near the oak keel of my boat. I have discovered that there is a white bedding compound between the garboard planks and the center keel lamination that has hardened and loosened in a lot of places. I believe a modern version of the compound would probably be something like 3M No. 5200 urethane sealant.

Correct, although you should also consider the 3-M 4200, which is less adhesive. The 5200 is great, assuming you don't want to ever separate the plank/keel area again. The 5200 is strong stuff.

After cleaning up all the areas needing new sealant, how would you proceed? Seal first, then caulk or the other way 'round. Also, is CPES and your other products compatible with 5200?

Regards,

Mike

Mike,

Yes, CPES is compatible with all polyurethane products. In fact, you will get a slightly better seal by using the 5200 or 4200 over wood that has been treated with CPES. So, you would clean down to bare wood and then coat with CPES. Give the CPES 1 day in warm weather or 2 days in cool weather for the carrier solvents to evaporate away, and then proceed with the 3-M sealants. You'll get a good seal and protected wood.

Doc