Access thru Aft Cabin Bulkhead to Cockpit Locker

[Frank Hand]

I am considering cutting an access hatchway (approx 2'x2' in the 3/4"plywood area that is free of fiberglass backing tape that bonds the bulkhead to the hull,bottom and deck) thru the portside half of the aft cabins bulkhead. Such a hatchway would provide access to the stern cockpit locker for the purpose of installing larger holding and reserve water tanks then will fit thru the stern locker lids. After installation the trap would normally kept closed and sealed as regular maintenance could be carried via the cockpit locker covers.I am given to understand that such a modification would not compromise the structual integrity and strength of the bulkhead. Interested hearing from other who have done this or have information that would help.

 

[Terry]

HI FRANK, HAPPY THANKSGIVING...

If it were my boat I would contact Hunter for their recommendation as to the best way to make the mod. Just my humble opinion.Terry

 

[Frank Walker]

Hack Away

Frank, as long as you stay at least a foot away from the edges of the plywood then the access hatch will have little effect on the strength of the bulkhead. You might look at bladder tanks. I put a 15 gallion one in the bottom of one of the aft lockers and it worked out pretty well. My boat is an 88 30.

 

[steve rainey]

Lexon

I have a hunter 30 1978. Went to a boat junk yard here in fl and found a couple of pieces of lexon, an acrelic plexiglass 1/2". Power boats use them as doors and the like. I re cut the 3 peices and replaced the wood. Really is nice. Dark from the outside can't see in and light from the inside like clear glass. Only cost me about $20 for the material. Thats whats on all the newer boats. modern look, lots of light into the cabin. The only way to go I think. Right now I'm replacing my hatch sliding cover witht he same stuff.

 

[Frank Hand]

Thanks for Responses

Advice appreciated. If I can find the right shape holding tank I still favor access via stern locker hatch. Flex tank 2nd choice only if unable to aquire ridged one.