access hatch

[windrose]

What are your thoughts on an access hatch just aft of the bridgedeck? I saw a rigid drop in (11"x17") with cam locks at West Marine. I plan to eventually put in a nice cockpit grate but it sure would be nice to be able to access the back of the motor with two hands instead of being able to get one arm in to it only to drop things down into the "abyss". I realize I would have to beef up the floor with a few stringers but seems a small price to pay. Pros/cons....

Got my big primary Barlowes working like new last night... replaced the prawls springs and soaked in kerosene to remove 40 years of gunk.... click, click, click.... ahhh!

[Tim]

A hatch is a great idea. I don't know how anyone survives without one. I think access to the rear of the engine, stuffing box, and scuppers is critical, and you can't do it effectively through the original round deck plate.

Beware of the plastic hatches. Many of them are not designed for foot traffic (such as the plastic Bomars, which are for vertical access surfaces), and are weak, bendy, and anything but watertight.

Originally, I used a Tempress hatch, which was OK but not great. The upgrade to a nice aluminum Bomar last winter was worth every penny.

Cockpit Access Hatch