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Replacement cockpit engine hatch

Posted: Mon Apr 16, 2018 9:52 pm
by Julian Critchley
My first post as the proud new owner of a Sabre 27 (actually, my first ever boat, so basically clueless).

I need to replace the engine inspection hatch in the floor of the cockpit. Currently it's neither safe nor watertight. Would anyone have any idea where I might be able to go to get a replacement either second hand or newly made?

Grateful for any and all advice.

Re: Replacement cockpit engine hatch

Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2018 5:12 am
by samphire2014
I am puzzled by your claim it is unsafe. Have you had it off yet, or does it feel flimsy underfoot?

Mine was removed several years ago. I discovered the timber stiffeners were rotten and waterlogged, this allowed the hatch to 'flex' as it now had no support. I cut these out and replaced with new timber, not a difficult task if you are 'handy'. I also found the edge of the mounting in the cockpit floor was deteriorating, so I stiffened this with fresh timber, before seating the repaired cover into a fresh bed of silicone. Might be worth a second look? PS, make sure you get all the screws out, before going armed with a long handled screwdriver (or jemmie) as levering up the old hatch to break a failing silicone seal can be a job which requires patience and a touch of brute force!

Re: Replacement cockpit engine hatch

Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2018 7:55 am
by jezza
Rather than using a sealant, I bought some sponge sealing strip from Seals Direct and used around the engine hatch (which doesn't actually give access to much apart from the stern gland).

Jerry Jones
Sea Spear
Plymouth