Deck Fill Cap Opener

[dkerphunter]

We have deck fill caps that require a winch handle (8 point star shaped) to open when tightly screwed down. I’ve seen a smaller device that fits in the deck fill cap recess like a winch handle, but it’s much smaller with an approximately 6 inch handle. Does anyone have a reference to order one of these? Thanks.

 

[Benny17441]

Weld a winch handle plug to a 3/8 inch socket extension and then you can use various handle lengths including ratchets.

 

[LeslieTroyer]

I use Mantus Marine (the Anchor folks deck key)
https://www.mantusmarine.com/mantus-universal-deck-key/

Les

 

[dkerphunter]

I use Mantus Marine (the Anchor folks deck key)
https://www.mantusmarine.com/mantus-universal-deck-key/

Les

Hi, That looks like a nice device, but it's for the two-hole version. Ours is the eight-point star pattern (like a winch). Found one in a European sailing shop. Thanks!

 

[LeslieTroyer]

It does two sizes of two hole, straight slot, and Star or square. - same as a winch. As you can see below three styles of caps.

 

[LeslieTroyer]

I have the version befor this one. It doest have the opener, or “wrenches”

 

[Parsons]

Try searching on eBay under "Boat Deck Filler Key wrench" Plastic one on there for $20. Not the seller -- just doing a little ninja searching.

I've got something like this to release the clutch on my Maxwell windlass. I'll keep better hold of it as I thought it was a pretty standard Maxwell part, but I guess not.

 

[jssailem]

On the Mantus. The bugger is heavy. You drop it in the water its is going to the bottom and will bury itself in the mud.

 

[Parsons]

You drop it in the water its is going to the bottom and will bury itself in the mud.

You sound like you speak from (expensive) experience. Probably should copy this to the Donations to Neptune thread from a couple years ago -- https://forums.sailboatowners.com/index.php?threads/donations-to-neptune.186801/

 

[jssailem]

Thank you for the vote of confidence. Knock on wood, not yet. Tried to add a key float then tested it in a bucket of water. Float bobbed above the deck key at the bottom of the water filled bucket. I could see the writing on the water. “I am dead weight. Drop me and I will sink like an anchor. You’ll need a small fender.”

So no tossing the key to crew. It’s been one season and with luck still have the key on the boat and usable.

 

[Newport Bob]

Original poster,
Here is one source. You might be able to find others - search for Amiot
http://www.rigrite.com/Hardware/Deck_Fills/Amiot_Deck_Fills.php#Deck Fill Keys