Frustrating latches on C315

Aug 21, 2019
163
Catalina 315 18 Grosse Pointe Park, MI
These latches on various storage areas of my C315 are difficult to latch, I have to push the button several times, exactly right for it to latch at all. Also the plastic strike needs to be readjusted and retightend regularly. I wonder anyone else has this issue
 

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Aug 2, 2009
651
Catalina 315 Muskegon
Yeah, they're a little fussy. I think it's all in how you hold your tongue. Actually, my 315 is new enough to me that I don't have any input on this.

BUT...one thing relating to the cabinet doors that I remedied right away is the chain that supports the doors when they're down. Let's say you're underway, it's wavy, and you open one of the doors to grab something quickly. When you close the door the chain will sway over to the side and get in the way of closing the door. And takes small chunks out of the veneer surrounding the opening. This was poorly thought out...if they thought at all. I relocated where the chains terminate on the door. Moved them over a couple-three inches, so the chains can't swing far enough to cause damage.

Another change I made was to get rid of that ROCK that they used to cover the storage area in the counter next to the sink. You stick your finger the little piece of hardware and lift up that heavy cover. Don't hit anything with it! I used the cover as a template to make an identical one out of Starboard. Instead of using hardware, I just used a 1.5" hole saw to make a hole in the middle of the thing, allowing easy lifting. The Starboard's much lighter than the rock that it replaced, and if you hit something with it, you won't kill it.
 
Jan 23, 2021
48
Catalina 315 81 Newport Beach
Dear Stephen:

My 315 is only three months old now, but I haven’t noticed any significant problems with the latches. Every once in a while one will take two pushes to unlatch, but otherwise fine so far.

As for the chains, I was wondering about replacing the chain with some thin line that would not mar the wood. Something to consider.

Agreed, the lid for the storage hatch is heavy. I was wondering about adding hinges and a lid holder Stainless Steel Lid Stay 12.75" similar to the icebox that is nearby. That might preserve the look and functionally of the storage space.