CONTINUOUSWAVE

I am rebuilding a 1989 19’ Rigid Raider with a removable 4’ x 8’ fuel tank deck that was originally anchored with 2.5” SS screws and silicone. The deck connection sealant leaked, rotting out the wooden screw backing and eventually destroying the fuel tank which I’ve replaced. Now having a good conduit for rigging I’m considering not screwing but fiber glassing the deck cover to the boat deck. Only concern I can imagine is added rigidity may leave no room for expansion and contraction in the deck, if that’s a concern at all. No interest in pulling the tank cover anytime soon and if needed I’d just skill saw the joint and pull it. Aside from that, does anyone see a reason not to glass the fuel tank cover to the deck?
Thank you,
Abe

If it were mine I would screw it down. Get all the silicone off and use Boat Life or 4200 caulk. Seal each screw.

Some day some one will need access to the tank.

Con

In addition to Con's advice.

Failure to seal the screws has been a problem in the past.

Recommend each screw in the boat be bedded with a dab of Boat Life or other polysulfide based sealant. As for the fuel deck seam, use of a Boat Life or other sealant is recommended to keep the water out. For a complementary color, consider DAP, OSI or Titebond brands.