[vbpiper]

I have cut the access holes in the top forward skin of my -7A, but I am wondering if there are any suggestions for sealing the retaining ring to the underside of the skin, and to form a gasket under the cover panels. I know proseal has been used successfully, but has anyone used any other materials? I am hoping not to have to buy more proseal just for this step.
Thanks

 

[jsharkey]

I have cut the access holes in the top forward skin of my -7A, but I am wondering if there are any suggestions for sealing the retaining ring to the underside of the skin, and to form a gasket under the cover panels. I know proseal has been used successfully, but has anyone used any other materials? I am hoping not to have to buy more proseal just for this step.
Thanks

Try NAPA Ultra Blue RTV - cheap and easy - should work.
Jim Sharkey

 

[kevinh]

Try NAPA Ultra Blue RTV - cheap and easy - should work.

Um - I've heard that RTV anywhere near something you'll want to paint is a recipe for disaster. I'd stick to proseal.

 

[tc1234c]

I used RTV and painted after a year. The area surrounding access hole looks fine. At least I can not tell there is anything wrong. Before painting, I did lightly sand (2000 wet-dry) around the access hole and clean it with wax and grease remover (not necessary for RTV but for general cleaning).

 

[Mark Castle-Smith]

Access holes gasket

On our RV7 we used neoprene gasket strip. I found a factory in the UK where they made it and sold me a short length in a roll. They make it a variety of thicknesses, some very thin indeed. Works great, totally waterproof (and fuel and oil proof), easy to replace, punch holes in the strip for the screws and creates a very thin seal. Use neoprene glue to bond the 45 degree chamfer in the corners.

Mark Castle-Smith
Finished RV7 and just ordered the RV3 empennage!
www.rv3.moonfruit.com

 

[vbpiper]

RTV

Thanks for the tips. I went ahead and used RTV under the backing rings. Will look for some gasket material for under the covers.
Gotta love these forums.

 

[Norman CYYJ]

Go to an auto-glass shop they have great rubber sealing compound that never hardens that they use when installing windshields. Works great and remains pliable.