Is there a standard way to check skin fittings?

[Muaddib1116]

Is there an industry standard method for checking the tightness mechanically and seal-wise of thru-hull skin fittings? For example, should you be able to put a thru-hull wrench in from the outside and exert some amount of torque (based on size) and if it doesn't move it can be considered good?

[SailingHarmonie]

If I was doing a pre-purchase survey of a boat I wouldn't even dream of doing this. If it leaks, you would see it, or at least see the effects. If it wasn't leaking, but you twisted it loose it would start leaking, and it would be my fault.

[Muaddib1116]

I wasn't thinking for a survey, but more for checking them before launching for the season. Obviously, you should cycle the seacock/valve at each thru-hull, but I was wondering if there was a standard check of the skin fitting itself.

[Rucksta]

Fill the bilge.

If the water stays on the inside, no leaks.

Any doubt, replace..

[Statistical]

Unless improper materials were used or you have serious stray current corrosion both of which are visually obvious thru hulls should last decades. The seacock is going to fail first. When replacing a 20 year old seacock you can make the call on if you should replace the thru hull as well. If it was going to leak from improper install it is going to leak shortly after being installed not many years later.

[s/v Jedi]

I simply use 5200 as the sealant with thru hull fittings… it eliminates the question of it still being good.

I just replaced a plastic fitting for my triducer… had to cut it out with the hole saw and that left perfectly prepped hole for the new fitting.