Best source for Butyl Tape

[billhatter]

OK gentlemen . I've read your discussion regarding the merits of Butyl Tape vs other sealants. I've looked on line and learned there are various widths & thicknesses . I'm ready to re-bed my chain plates. Someone tell me the width/ thickness I should use AND the best place to purchase it.

Bill Hatter
Proud Mary
Hull#459

[Kevin Henderson]

Hi Bill, 

As a satisfied customer... I would be happy to shamelessly plug Mainsail's site and source at Compass Marine.

  http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/boat_projects

While you're there.. don't forget to check out all of his excellently written articles on various "How To" projects... expecially rebedding hardware with Grey Butyl

[mainesail]

Thanks Kevin!!

[Gary]

Ditto x 4 .......Mainesail and Kevin have it right...... both in tutorials and supplying butyl rubber tape! We just did our chain plates and one leaking stanchion using the butyl that Rod offers on his web site. Perfect results...no leaks after many years of trying other sealants.

Butyl rubber is flexible. You can work it with your hands and come away with clean non-sticky fingers. You can cut a small piece, stretch it, fold it in half,  and work it around a small bolt or screw and then watch the superior compression when doing immediate tightening. And then clean up excess with ease. Worked great on handrails too!

A great discovery after many years of other sealants !!

Gary

[DaveM]

Mainesail's butyl is very easy to use.  Sticks and forms well. Much better than others I have seen that people got from RV dealers. Been using for over a year.

Goodwinds
DaveM

[RV61]

Sailrite also carries it. I have been using to bed canvas hardware to boat and plan to use on a leaky chain plate.

[billhatter]

Thanks gentlemen.  My tape arrived today.  Now lets see, which project do I tackle first?

Bill Hatter
Proud Mary
Hull #459