Glue to attach handle to hatch

Jun 20, 2021
165
Beneteau 343 Fort Lauderdale
what would be the best glue to reattach the handle to the hatch? JD Weld epoxy lasted for a few days and then fell off on a calm morning.
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jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
22,389
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
Can you buy a handle that bolts through the plexiglass? Lewmar hatches use through screwed handles to secure the hatch.
 
Jun 21, 2004
2,669
Beneteau 343 Slidell, LA
what would be the best glue to reattach the handle to the hatch?
I had handles on both of the forward overhead Lewmar hatches de-bond within the past three years. Epoxy won’t work; have to use Plexus MA 310. (Methyl methacrylate chemistry). Same stuff that Lewmar used. Sand the handle surface to remove old glue & use a sharp chisel to remove old glue from lens & sand. Clean surfaces with alcohol. Mask the lens with painters tape. Check the handle position on adjacent hatch. I clamped for 24 hours, after gluing, before use. First repair has held up for over three years. You can also purchase new screw retained handles & gaskets from Hatch-masters
 
Jun 21, 2004
2,669
Beneteau 343 Slidell, LA
I stand corrected, the first handle that I reglued with Plexus MA310 lasted 6 1/2 years; debonded a few days ago. I am checking out the conversion to screw retained handles (Lewmar # 360255990) for the size 20 low profile hatches. Saw a video on You Tube on the conversion; have to admit I am a bit nervous about drilling a hole thru acrylic with a step drill:yikes:! If you get in a jam and need a quick repair, the Plexus method is pretty good.
 
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