[C320-list] Leaking Traveler

[Jeff Smith]

While we are discussing water leaks, I noticed that I have water coming into my head from the bolt that secures the traveler to the deck. I am fairly certain it is the Traveler bolt, and not the hatch, because I was there while it was raining and I dried the bolt and it was wet to the touch immediately. The other bolt was not wet, though.

Has anyone removed and reseated the traveler? I searched the list, and I have seen several people ask the question, but I did not see anyone answer that they had accomplished this task. I did see suggestions to soak the nuts in penetrating oil, but my questions are:


  1.  Is it really as simple as removing the four acorn nuts (which I understand will be really difficult) and then pulling the Traveler up and away from the deck?
  2.  If I can get step 1 accomplished, what would I use to reseat the Traveler? I assume there is some type of caulk or butyl tape that goes around the edge of the Traveler. Would I also need something on the bolts?

Any help is appreciated. I also have leaking portlights, and I have already bookmarked the discussions that talk about how to fix the horizontal gasket. Fun winter projects!

Jeff Smith
’94, #121, Sailmates