Porthole question - Islander 32

[gbraun]

I am starting a 1.5 year refit on my 1977 Islander 32 - I'm sure there will be many more posts and questions before Spring 2011.

My portholes are crazed and oxidized, need replacement. They are 1/4 plexiglass, in hard plastic frames which are secured with caulk. I have a source for my choice of replacement portholes, but must re-use the frames. It took over an hour to get the old caulk cut away enough to remove the first of 8 portholes today. Is there a product that anyone knows of to soften or dissolve what is apparently silicone caulk?

Thanks to all
George
Islander 32

[Rachel]

Hi George, and welcome to the forum! :)

Unfortunately, as you're finding, removing silicone is a bear. I don't think anyone has found a real cure-all. There have been lots of threads talking it over though, and I'm pretty sure some of them will discuss the various stabs at removal.

You'll find out why once you start reading, but if you use the search feature here and enter the words "silicone" and "devil" you'll dredge up a number of threads.

The main thing, I think, is to try to remove as much of it as possible before you attempt any sort of sanding or grinding. That's because it's easy to "grind" the silicone oil contamination (further) into the gelcoat.

I have seen some silicone removal products, but I haven't used them.

I'm sorry you're having to deal with it :(

We'd love to see photos of your boat, if you care to start a thread for her :)

Rachel

[BS Smith]

At post time:

Silicone devil = five hits

Silicone evil = sixteen (more relevant) hits

BS

[Rachel]

Ha, thanks for adding that.

I guess its obvious we're not too fond of it :)

Rachel

[Desertmariner]

Hi, I was thinking that a "multi tasker" tool might be helpful. Harbor frieight sells one really cheap. There are others that would vibrate like the devil in that tight sliver of a space.

[Hirilondë]

It took over an hour to get the old caulk cut away enough to remove the first of 8 portholes today. Is there a product that anyone knows of to soften or dissolve what is apparently silicone caulk?

That sounds about right. It is a boat after all. No project goes near as quickly as you would like. You've already received responses about the silicone, nothing more need be said on that subject. Now you have to thoroughly clean your port frames and the area around the openings in the cabin. That will likely take upwards of a couple/three hours each port. I don't mean to discourage you, but these steps have to be done well or your new ports will leak from the moment you install them.