Helm console padlock/gasket material?

[backman]

Somewhere I saw a CC28 w/ a hinged padlock between the two bolts which hold the helm secure.

My new one came down in my lap this afternoon and scared the heck out of me.

Likewise; the new helm is either a hair smaller than my old one or has a slightly more aggressive cut. I've got a 1/4" gap down the port side/vertical contact point. Water is going to get in there; any suggestions on the best way to gasket it into watertightness?

[Little Dandy]

Maybe rig up something out of neopreen?

[backman]

Taco hatch weatherproofing

1/2" adhesive backed rubber/foam strips - 8' for 5.99$ - best buy I've ever had at West Marine. I ran it just inside the contact line - it should do a great job of making a waterproof dam against anything that seeps in.

[Split Decision]

Larry

On my 32 there is a dam made out of starboard right where you are putting the foam strip that diverts the water around the sides. Does yours have this?

[CClassic28]

Larry,

I did the same thing on my console with some EPDM rubber weatherstrip from Home Depot. It has been a few years and has held up great.


Chris

[backman]

No dam on a '98 28

You get the benefit of continual improvement to the boat.