Gaskets for ABI Ports

[steve77]

Our ports are about 22 year old rectangular bronze by ABI. Over time, the gaskets have permanently indented where the lip of the port rests against them. This requires constant retighting of the port dogs to try and stop the leak.

In a moment of inspiration, I pulled the gaskets out and reversed them so that the portion of the gasket that was at the bottom of the channel is now what rests against the port. This gave the port a new surface to seal against, and has actually worked very well.

However, what I really need are new gaskets. I purchased what were advertised as replacements for ABI rectangular ports, but they were not even a close fit. To their credit, the store took them back with no questions.

The gaskets are square in cross section, 7/16" x 7/16". The material looks to be a closed cell rubber foam. There's no need for adhesive on the material, it looks like a pressure fit will hold it in place.

Any suggestions for a source? I need about 50 feet to do the whole boat.

[SVTatia]

McMAster-Carr - they have all kinds, the EPDM closed-cell is the way to go.

McMaster-Carr

[TOPGALLANT32]

a bit late but hope this helps. I have the same port lights and recently redid them. you can buy what is called cord stock in large coils to replaced the old compressed stuff. your right,dont need the sticky stuff. got my stock from sextons in portland or. hope youve worked this out by now.

[steve77]

Thanks to both of you for replying.

No, I haven't taken care of this, yet. I have it pretty near the top of the "to-do" list with spring rains approaching.

Topgallant - Do you know what kind of rubber you used? SVTatia recommended EPDM. Also, what size did you buy? Mine presently have 7/16" x 7/16" gaskets, but I don't know if that's what came originally with the ports or if the PO had replaced them at some point.

Thanks for the input!

[benjiwoodboat]

Thread hi-jacking a wee bit... although VERY related...

I'm looking for gasket material for my 5" round ABI gaskets. These are non-opening, and the gasket is U-channel. Glass thickness is 1/4". Does anyone have a good solution for me, or a source for finding a similar gasket?

Gasket looks like this... needless to say, it's a bit leaky.

[Shoalcove]

Could you use good marine silicone sealant or such to bed the glass?