Just bought a tube of 3M 4000 grade marine sealant. I only need a small amount and for $20.00 in this little tube, I’m trying to figure out the best way to make it last. The last tube of 5200 didn’t last long, even storing it in the refrigerator(which I had heard would extend the life). Anyone have ideas?
I’ve had a tube of 5200 in my fridge in the shop for over a year now. I haven’t had the need for it lately. but I just take it out to warm up for a couple of hrs. before I need it, and it works fine. Sometimes I have to unclog the tip before I use it.
Bob Van Gundy
803-727-4069
Custom Aluminum Fabrication
Wonder if it would help to vacuum bag it? Run it through the foodsaver.
218WA Sailfish
200 Verado
The "Penn"sion Plan
Latest boat US magazine says to place a glob of Vaseline in the end to plug it while not in use.
I install a tight fitting screw that I have to thread in the open end with a screw gun!
freezer not fridge
21 Contender
They also com in like an 8oz tube. Still like $10 but a decent option. West M has them.
2002 17’SeaHunt
quote:
Originally posted by BlueGooseThey also com in like an 8oz tube. Still like $10 but a decent option. West M has them.
2002 17’SeaHunt
This helps, but when you can buy a caulk gun tube for $22 it’s hard to justify $10 on a tiny tube.
I use a screw (2" at least) in the end of the tube, has worked well so far. I did have to put a new tip on one tube one time, though.
Wadmalaw native
16’ Bentz-Craft Flats Boat
I wrap the top and bottom securely with duct tape when I use it the first time. Its usually good to go the second time I open it up. When I pull it out to use and find that it has hardened and I can’t get any out; I poke a hole in the side of the casing and usually get enough for another job. Then I close that hole with duct tape. The next time I need some; I poke another hole a little lower on the casing. I have had a tube last over two years and multiple projects doing this.
Lowes sells a plug cap for the end of the tube. Small and large size do well with a little tape added. I use them with calk, silicone, marine sealant, tile sealant, etc… Six months between uses and maybe a little hard bit on the end but good to go after that.
-Regulator 28fs
-Dolphin 18BC Pro
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“Everybody dances when shotgun sings” Stewart and Winfield