Proper method to seal flybridge instrument cutout??

[Bruce Palmer]

Hello. I'm adding a rudder angle indicator to my exposed flybridge instrument panel. After cutting out a 3" hole I have layers of exposed fiberglass and plywood on the sides. What is the proper way to seal the area against water intrusion in case the new gauge seals were to leak? Varnish, sealant, epoxy ?? Thanks for any comments.

BTW the angle indicator really helps during docking!

Bruce

 

[Capt Jack]

I always use thickened epoxy to seal the edges. The other products age rather quickly in my experience. Nothing lasts forever!

John

 

[Bruce Palmer]

Thanks Capt Jack. Just left West Marine with a tube of West Systems Six10. Stay safe.

 

[C lectric]

Too late I guess but I use the raw epoxy but catalyzed unthickened to coat the wood edges. That way the stuff will soak into the wood somewhat.
Then I thicken the epoxy and paint on a thicker layer. The raw epoxy now provides a primer that has penetrated the wood which the already thickened may not be as good at.