Need goo "Used" commercial inspection hatch

  • August 25, 2013 8:06 AM
    Message # 1373551
    Deleted user

    I am trying to find a commercial inspection/ hatch cover of the type typically found on working boats. I am in the process of bolting down and making the cockpit sole water tight and would like to install the inspection hatch into the cockpit sole so I can check engine oil and perform vavious other tasks without having to take off the whole sole.

    Type of hatch would ideally be of cast aluminum, "Used" and have a twist handle allowing easy access.

  • August 25, 2013 8:20 PM
    Reply # 1373902 on 1373551
    Deleted user
    hatch

    or for less $$

    and a second Hatch
    Last modified: August 27, 2013 8:21 AM | Deleted user
  • August 26, 2013 4:18 PM
    Reply # 1374611 on 1373551
    Deleted user
    That's the type of hatch, but want to pay much less.
  • August 31, 2013 11:02 AM
    Reply # 1378658 on 1373551
    Deleted user
    Chris,  I used a Bowmar hatch (bought second hand) and it worked fine until a 300# crewmember stepped on it rather heavily and cracked it.  I could have replaced the acrylic with a thicker piece, or even Lexan, but opted to just replace it with a Lewmar Ocean series hatch.  I put three strips of clear skateboard "grip" tape on the hatch for traction.  It works very well for checking oil, fuel levels, switching tanks, etc.  I'd sell the Bowmar very cheaply ($50 plus UPS shipping) if you want to preplace the acrylic yourself.  You'd need at least 3/8" thick.  Email me at tkoehl2769@comcast.net if interested.  Tom Koehl
  • September 03, 2013 5:38 AM
    Reply # 1380395 on 1373551
    Deleted user
    I have Bomar Ocean series hatches on my boat, very good equipment. That being said I would not use them for this application for the very reasons you stated here. I will keep looking around for a proper hatch
  • September 03, 2013 10:52 PM
    Reply # 1381153 on 1373551
    Deleted user
    I have the second commercial hatch as noted (links) above. Works ok and It did cost me some money just like the link states.  If you are to poor to buy one of these, please think about use the whole removable floor as a work around (It won't cost any extra $$'s and you won't cut up your good floor hatch).

      With a little care I can get my 15hp outboard down into the engine room through the commercial hatch. The hatch weighs about 30# +/- and is not to hard on the feet +/-. I painted it brown to look a little better. It is flush for the most part. It always has small amount of water in the hand hold dips except while sailing on rough seas. It gives fast access to the propshaft and aft end of the engine room, but it did cost real money. I know, I too wish everything was for free, and took no time. but some how it is combo of time and money.

    The Plex or lexan hatches are not for this type of service! they are for up on deck service = low, or no traffic.

    Norm

    (edited 9/6/13) I forgot; I did add a little reinforcing rib (2"down)  around in the floor hatch around the bottom of the mount ring on the commercial hatch, it also tied in the mounting bolts for the ring, without it (the reinforcement) the floor flexed a bit more than I liked. The hatch takes out allot of the floors ply core.
    Chris (sorry I did indeed miss the word USED in your post) my links were for new, for used ? maybe look at some of the boat yards some times they strip old worn out work boats but the hatches may also be worn out.  You may want to check at Minnies they have some of almost everything.

    Last modified: September 06, 2013 6:37 PM | Deleted user
  • September 04, 2013 5:14 AM
    Reply # 1381309 on 1373551
    Deleted user

    I have just finished tapping threads into the stainless backer strips that the builder of our W32 had the foresight to install behind the raised flange that the removable cockpit sole rests on as well as all new rubber gasket. This allows the sole to very easily be bolted down and hopefully create a watertight seal with out the need for getting into the engine space and deal with attaching nuts. All that is required to easily remove the sole for larger projects is a rachet wrench and a couple of minutes of time. With that said I check my oil every time I start the motor and other items like the fuel distribution manifold have been all relocated to the rear bulkhead directly over the shaft and I do not want to have to unbolt the sole every time I want to take the boat out, a real PITA. So the idea is to get a good used small rectangular aluminum access hatch like found on commercial working vessels. One of the things I truly enjoy is finding quality good used equipment for the boat and have done this through the entire 9 year re-commissioning process with very good result, all that is usually required is a little patience.

     

  • September 04, 2013 7:52 PM
    Reply # 1381992 on 1373551

    Chris,

    I found a used Bomar cast aluminum hatch in a marine salvage shop for  $330. It's proved to be one of my favorite additions. The ease of access makes this a must have for anyone contemplating long term cruising. I recently installed a diesel polishing system while anchored off the ICW at Lantana, Fl. Took several days with the hatch on and off several times each day and hours down below, in and out, up and down. Plenty of room to maneuver.  I wouldn't hesitate paying the sale price listed in Norm's post.

    https://picasaweb.google.com/101274627576818259928/BomarMod#

    scott

  • September 06, 2013 5:03 AM
    Reply # 1383032 on 1373551
    Deleted user
    Nice work, I didn't realize Bomar made tis type of hatch.
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