Old 4-3/4” hole next to companionway, what should I put in it? (Picture)

T

tylcole

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Apr 25, 2020
13
Catalina 34 SoCal
I’m looking for recommendations on what to put into the hole right next to the companionway, picture attached. It’s 4-3/4” and preferably I wouldn’t modify it. I already have a compass at the helm, so won’t need that. It used to have a light in it, but it hasn’t worked since I got the boat and I chose to just remove it.

Any suggestions?
241C62A5-C087-4D73-B441-87E76B66DC46.jpeg
 
D

dlochner

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Jan 11, 2014
13,064
Sabre 362 113 Fair Haven, NY
A speaker or a knot meter?

Also if that is plain masking tape, it should come off while it can still come off easily.
 
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Justin_NSA

Justin_NSA

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Jul 7, 2004
8,496
Hunter 30T Cheney, KS
I have a somewhat similar question in another thread. I am asking if an external VHF speaker is practical to monitor the WX channel. Would that work for you?
 
rgranger

rgranger

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Jan 19, 2010
12,625
Hobie 16 & Rhodes 22 Skeeter Charleston
Justin_NSA said:
I have a somewhat similar question in another thread. I am asking if an external VHF speaker is practical to monitor the WX channel. Would that work for you?
Click to expand
A RAM mic attached to your existing VHF is probably a better option.

I'd put a compass in that hole if it were my boat.

1594916198646.png


I recently upgraded mine and it went into a hole that looks a lot like that one. I got it through the SBO store (right here) and @Dave Groshong was very helpful in helping me buy the exact right one.
 
Ron20324

Ron20324

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Jan 22, 2008
8,050
Beneteau 323 Annapolis MD
Kings Gambit said:
In the mean time, maybe a SS vent plate over the hole.
Click to expand
I like the compass idea - if he needs a compass. Otherwise, I think Bekson makes an opening port w/ screen that size, but maybe a bit bigger? I put one in place of the portlight on the stern of my B235, and it really helped.
 
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PaulK

PaulK

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Dec 1, 2009
1,418
Sabre 402 Southport, CT
Fitting a wooden plug there would provide a base for screwing things to - cup holder, portable bracket for VHF (on the outside), hook for foul weather gear (inside). Would need to be well sealed, but would be easier than 'glassing it over. (BTDT)
 
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Justin_NSA

Justin_NSA

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Jul 7, 2004
8,496
Hunter 30T Cheney, KS
Or maybe a giant magnet to hold onto stuff. Should be far enough from the compass.
 
ggrizzard

ggrizzard

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May 27, 2004
2,056
Hunter 30_74-83 Ponce Inlet FL
Depth gauge head or a wind speed head could fit there if you don't have one or the other.
Of course, you would have to install their respective transducer/sensor as well.
Don't be limited to a 4.5" item. You could install a bezel around the hole to accommodate a smaller
gauge or accessory.
 
capta

capta

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Jun 4, 2009
4,949
Pearson 530 Admiralty Bay, Bequia SVG
That's a toughie since we don't know your budget or what instruments other than a compass that you already have. How's the ventilation in the boat when she's closed up and you are away? Would she benefit from a vent there as mentioned above?
 
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T

tylcole

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Apr 25, 2020
13
Catalina 34 SoCal
This was great, thank you all for the suggestions. These are all really good ideas, I’ve got a bit to think about now.
 
NYSail

NYSail

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Jan 6, 2006
3,145
Beneteau 423 Mt. Sinai, NY
I removed instruments from first boat in similar location. I cut a round price of plexiglass and made a window into galley.....

Greg
 
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