25.5 Forward Hatch Does Not Fit

[Bones]

I ordered the "will fit" forward hatch (Bomar) from Sailboat Owners. Received part number 802319 (Hatch No. 966). My access hole is 1/4 inch smaller than the hatch. I was hoping I could get some feedback from someone who has changed out a hatch on a 25.5 and run into a similar problem. At this point, I am thinking about ordering the less expensive hatch because modification to the hatch will eliminate the screen enclosure. Cutting on the boat just doesn't seen to be an option. The ad was right when it said this is probably the only one. There is nothing out there for a 16 5/8 inch cutout. The old hatch is pretty much wasted. Any help would be appreciated.

Bones

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

go to help@sailboatowners.com directing your question either to Al or Joe. Both are former hunter employees.

 

[Buckeye T]

Having done this myself it is no big deal. There is lots of solid material in that section and an 1/8” cut on each side never touched the core. Carefully make a pattern for the new frame, trace it on the deck and cut to fit. My wife thought I was ruining our brand new to us boat until the new hatch dropped in nicely. PM me if you need more information. Terry

 

[Bones]

Thanks for the replies. I have arrive at a simple fix. I will publish it when I finish in hopes it will help others with this boat.

 

[Billboard]

I did this, enlarged the hole enough for the new hatch to fit. Was easy and the new one works much better than the original leaky one.