The anchor locker hatch on our Beneteau 361 can be a real toe smashing hazard. Has anyone added a pneumatic strut similar to the engine compartment hatch?
Anchor locker hold open
- Thread starter rwilson134
- Start date
I assume you mean when it's up and then comes smashing down unexpectedly? Many skippers have screwed a lanyard into the inside of the "door(s)" with a clip to the pulpit. I use a bungee cord with plastic clips at each end and clip to the lifeline/pulpit thin metal and then to the edge of the door, if you have an edge. All sorts of different creative methods.
My 323 has a lazarette seat hatch that would have made a good guillotine. I installed a gas strut, and kept the original stopper line in place to prevent over travel. The single strut has made it much safer, and has worked for the last five years. Because the strut will eventually wear out, I am going to replace it as a precautionary measure this year. I am considering the addition of a second strut simply for better balance.
Doug, that looks like a super arrangement. Can you get a stronger strut? Or would that not make any difference in your setup?
Doug, wise choice. My favorite boat store is ACE Hardware! Really, we have a great one on Alameda Island, and since they're so close to so many boats, they keep a great stock of boat related materials, like SS fasteners, that most normal hardware stores don't stock in the range that this store does, all for non-marine prices. I'm in heaven when I walk in there! 