replacing bulkhead - details

[John Reimann]

Elsewhere, I've asked some questions about replacing the port (plywood) bulkhead that the chain plate is attached to (the one right aft of the head). Two questions on this:

1)What do people think of using 5200 or liquid nail in addition to the screws already used to fix it to the boat? I know in the higher-end boats such bulkheads are glassed in, so would gluing it in this way at least make it a little stronger?

2)I read that some people have sealed the edges of the bulkhead before installing it. What's the best way to seal it - simply use some sort of varnish, or smearing on a thin coating of caulking? If it's the latter, I guess I could use 5200 and just let that serve as both a sealant and a strengthener.

[Creedence623]

Hey John,

I'm not sure how effective 5200 would be as a substitute for fiberglass tabbing. As a structural reinforcement I think it would fail long before fiberglass would. HOWEVER, since we don't have anything supporting the bulkhead I can't think of anything a little 5200 would hurt. As for sealing the plywood, just use some West Systems epoxy painted on with a paintbrush. I also recommend sealing the undersides and edges of the cabin sole panels this way.