Sealing Holes in Fiberglass
I am replacing my clearance lights with new LED lights. The old lights were about 4.5" x 1.75", with screw holes on 4" centers. Part of my selection criteria was to use larger lights so I did not have to worry about the old footprint showing around the new lights. I have chosen LED lights that are about 6" x 2", with 4.5" centers.
The old lights received power through a large (at least an inch) hole centered under the light. The new lights will only need a hole large enough to insert two 16 gauge wires with bullet connectors. I plan to use a silicon gasket between the new lights and the fiberglass. It will have two crossed cuts in the center to allow the wires to pass through; the screw locations will have holes punched, slightly smaller than #8 screws.
Should I try to do anything else to make the center hole smaller; if so, how?
Should I attempt to glue the silicon gasket to the light or the fiberglass? (Contact cement or something else?
There are two small weep holes in the plastic fixture, one at the top (!) and one at the bottom. I would like to seal those, especially the top one. I think I have a better chance to keep the moisture out, than leaving an opening. What does your experience show?
The old lights were held in place by #8 screws, with a very fine thread distance. My new stainless steel #8 screws have a much coarser thread. Since these are held only by the thickness of the fiberglass material used in the front and rear caps. I am concerned about reusing the old screws, but additionally worried about #8 screws with a coarser thread. Would it be safer to use #10 screws to avoid problems with the screws in that "thin" fiberglass?
Even though the old screw holes will be covered with the new lights, it seems only prudent to seal them with something. I have not worked much with fiberglass, so am looking at sealant with which I am familiar. I have used a DAP Dynaflex 230, which is described as 100% waterproof window and door trim sealant for indoors and out doors. It is hard to figure out what the sealant is made from, but the following statement is on the package:
"Dynaflex 230 is a premium latex sealant with the performance characteristics of nonindustrial acetoxy silicone products."
Will this product work to keep moisture from penetrating the end caps through the old screw holes?
Is there a better product?
What do y'all use and/or recommend for sealing small holes in my exterior fiberglass?
I guess that is enough questions for one message. I would sure like assistance from those who have gone before me, or have solved similar problems. Please feel free to share your suggestions.
Thank you.
Trent
Topic: Sealing Holes in Fiberglass