1980 Hunter 30" - engine access

[magichunt]

Hello!
We just purchased a Hunter 30 (1980) in great shape. We're familiar with boats this size where the cabin stairs unlock and flip down for engine access, but not true on this boat. Does one have to remove the floor panel in the helm area to gain access? Can't see any other alternative. Suggestions welcome!
Thanks -

 

[Steve Dion]

I believe that you just need to lift up the stairs and pull out from the bottom to gain access to the engine.

 

[rufus1138]

yes. the companion way step is a box that will come apart in various ways, the top may slide off or hinge and the steps will usually lift up out then down and away. also cockpit floor in ur boat has a hatch that helps alot.

 

[John T1594]

Engine access on this boat is not great but it can be done. The front access has the most room and you can reach most parts of the engine - thermostat, zincs, hoses, water pump, etc. I once replaced my exhaust mixer and muffler hoses while lying on top of the engine from above. (I had a 2QM15) There is a panel in the quarter berth that provides access to the shaft, batteries and fuel tank and filter but it allows only one arm to reach in and work without much visibility. There is a large panel inside the starboard lazarette but you have to get into the lazarette to do any work. The panel on the floor of the cockpit is not much use unless you want to remove the fuel tank. With the floor panel removed, there is no place to stand or sit to reach the engine and shaft unless you can work while hanging upside down. A good light, a hand held mirror, some good tools and lots of patience go a long way.

 

[Nereussailor]

Everyone has the right idea with the H30. The stairs lift and pull right out. My 1983 has a hatch in the counter top for top access. The rear access is only good for getting at the transmission and shaft. I've laid on top of my engine to access stuff on the back of it. It's pretty uncomfortable but it's very seldom that I have had to get at anything on the back of the engine.

 

[Rich M]

I have an 85 28.5 with that I think is the same access as the H 30. I basically cut a door in the rear panel allowing it to swing out od the way and provide complete access to the entire back of the engine. Not that difficult to do.

 

[MLampner]

If you are looking for major access to the right side of the engine removing the wall from the quarter birth requires removing six screws or there about and gives easy access and room to work. Less comfortable but also done as already offered is taking the panel out on the lazerette to gain access on the opposite side.