Re-installing Cockpit Center Deck Section

[Jcomeau0]

I have a 1988 REVENGE 22 W-T WD. I plan to remove the cockpit deck to [improve] access to the rigging tunnel [in order to install new] engines.

Q1: what is the process to reinstall this section of deck?

Q2: is a sealant put down prior to putting the deck back in place?

Q3: or, I just [apply a] seal to the cover after it is in place?

Q4: what is the best sealant or best adhesive for this installation?

[jimh]

I have a 1988 REVENGE 22 W-T WD. I plan to remove the cockpit deck to [improve] access to the rigging tunnel [in order to install new] engines.

I don't think removing the cockpit center deck section is completely necessary to run new rigging through the rigging tunnel. Removing the deck may not make the work easier as with the deck section removed, you will not have a surface on which you can stand in the cockpit. But, if you want to remove the deck, well, I guess that's one way to do the new rigging.

Q1: what is the process to reinstall this section of deck?

Most of the process will be in removing any old sealant from the center deck and from the hull liner, cleaning up any debris or dirt that is revealed, and perhaps while the fuel tank and related hoses are now revealed, inspecting those hoses and connections. In particular, I would look at the large-diameter hose that connects the fuel fill fitting to the fuel tank inlet fitting, particularly the horizontal portion of that hose. Check to see if there is a softening of the rubber hose or a low spot in the hose where gasoline fuel could puddle and remain in the hose. Those rubber hoses --if the originals--are now 36-years-old, and they perhaps need replacement

Q2: is a sealant put down prior to putting the deck back in place?

I would not put down any sealant BEFORE the deck was set back in position.

Q3: or, I just [apply a] seal to the cover after it is in place?

That would be the method I would use.

Q4: what is the best sealant or best adhesive for this installation?

DO NOT USE an adhesive. Just use a sealant. The weight of the deck section and the many screw fasteners will hold the deck in place, so no adhesive is needed. Just use a suitable marine caulk that is just a sealant, not an adhesive. Choose the color to match the gel coat color, which is not pure white.

[Jcomeau0]

Jim, thanks for all the advice. I should have mentioned inspecting fuel tank and associated lines was another intention of mine as well. Thanks again.