Spring Keel at St. Francis Yacht ClubMarch 3 - 4
Result
PosBoatTotalRace 1Race 2Race 3
1Witchy Woman6213
2Motorcycle Irene9126
3Baffett10631
4Wile E Coyote15744
5Magic Bus17458
6Xena18972
7El Raton193115
8Moxie20569
9Bessie Jay3112127
10Mirage3111911
11Peaches3214810
12Elise35131012
13Kolibri3781415
14Opa!39101514
14Wild Mojo41151313
15Radio Flyer4916DNF16
export csv

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Author: Brendan Busch ([email protected]) contact the author
Subject: [email protected]
Info: (15026 views) Posted: Wednesday 6-6-18 11:10:35 AM
No posted instructions that I know of, though you can search the internet and find various approaches people have taken.

Generally windows leak through the screw holes, though if not well sealed originally they can leak anywhere. The cabin top flexes a lot when walked on and will break the seal for the windows. If the windows are in very good shape and seem well sealed you can try removing offending screws, sealing them with silicone, and replacing them.

To re-bed the windows they must be removed, all old sealant carefully cleaned from boat and windows (difficult as you should avoid using acetone or solvents to clean the boat or windows), and then resealed. It may be a good time to replace them--if you take the old windows to Tap Plastics they will fabricate new windows for a very reasonable price. Have them drill the screw holes also (oversize to allow for expansion), as drilling through lexan without a proper drill will cause micro cracks that spread later. Note that Tap will bevel and/or melt edges to your specifications for a very nice look.

After breaking several windows during races, I switched to polycarbonate windows, which scratch more easily but are much much stronger.

When re-bedding windows, you want to have a good thickness of silicone. One trick I learned for this is to cut tiny squares of white electrical tape and placing them near (1/4" away from) the screw holes, so when you fasten the window in place there is still a thickness of silicone to make the seal. Don't tighten the screws until the silicone has set up somewhat, and then don't tighten them very much. Remember, you want a thickness of silicone to make the seal.

Masking over everywhere that silicone should not go (window, cabin top) is a good idea, as silicone that gets loose will both make a mess and make future painting / repair jobs go poorly.

I have an Express 37 with the original windows (very hazy but no leaks). They have very thick silicone layer (perhaps 1/8" thick). I'm not sure what trick they used, but it has been very effective over the years.

:: Where can I find how to repair Express Window water
:: leak?

:: I heard it is common for Express 27. Any article or
:: instruction for the repair?

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