H49 Deck Dorade / Cowl vents

[T J Furstenau]

So, I'm curious if anyone (@artboas would be the most likely! ) has looked into the space above the companionway slider to see how/where any air that the cowl vents picks up makes its way into the cabin. The cowl vents have pretty much lived their lifespan, they're getting dingy and sticky, and not sure what cleaning/restoration options that I have left. That being said, before I put effort into the replacement, I'd like to know if that air makes it down below? Or am I just drying off the top of the slider when it's open?

These are the kind of random questions that keep me up at night when I'm away from the boat and would rather be on it.

 

[sail sfbay]

You might do a test by making a seal over the vent with plastic, connecting an air blower, e.g., leaf blower, and have someone down below confirm how the air circulates.

 

[tkwhalen]

I followed mine last year with the same clean them up plan you have. As near as I can tell they are nothing more then decorations. You are more generous giving them the job of allowing air to dry the companion way when open.

 

[Daze]

Replacing the old dingy ones was on the top of my wife’s list of improvements. I deferred for two seasons but then found some nice stainless replacements. The inside can be custom powder coated. I went with dark blue to match trim. Doesn’t show well in the pics. The source I used was Buchan Marine Low Profile Cowl Vent with Deck Plate

 

[T J Furstenau]

Replacing the old dingy ones was on the top of my wife’s list of improvements. I deferred for two seasons but then found some nice stainless replacements. The inside can be custom powder coated. I went with dark blue to match trim. Doesn’t show well in the pics. The source I used was Buchan Marine Low Profile Cowl Vent with Deck Plate

Those look absolutely gorgeous! I'm just not sure I'm sold (cause the SS ones you got aren't cheap) if they are purely cosmetic and non-functional. I will absolutely keep the link though, because if I can prove to the boss that they actually will move air down below, it will be a much easier sell to her. If they're cosmetic? I may go back to dropping in the cover plates and calling it a day.

Thanks!
T J

 

[joshw5144]

Replacing the old dingy ones was on the top of my wife’s list of improvements. I deferred for two seasons but then found some nice stainless replacements. The inside can be custom powder coated. I went with dark blue to match trim. Doesn’t show well in the pics. The source I used was Buchan Marine Low Profile Cowl Vent with Deck Plate

Those look awesome. We’re they a direct bolt on? What size did you go with?

 

[sail sfbay]

I aslo replaced my tired PVC cowls with large stainless steel ones from Shop | Buchan Marine. Same screw pattern fit without new holes. Very good value for money.

 

[Daze]

Those look awesome. We’re they a direct bolt on? What size did you go with?

Thanks, 4 inch fit perfectly in the existing hole. Just needed to drill slightly different hole pattern.

 

[joshw5144]

Thanks, 4 inch fit perfectly in the existing hole. Just needed to drill slightly different hole pattern.

Awesome, thanks!

 

[artboas]

Yes, I’m totally familiar with this situation, and know the exact vents.
Buchanan had these custom made to their specs offshore. They are priced well, as you’re not paying for multiple levels of distribution.
I’ve had these on order for awhile.
The honest answer I’d the amount of air that they get into the boat is zero (0) percent.
Like.,,, nothing.
The removable Fiberglas part over the companionway has no venting into the ceiling. It’s honestly a cosmetic addition to the coachroof.
I know what you’re saying… it would be crazy to add non functional air stacks on a boat.

Does the name “Titanic” ring a bell?

I think that they do add to the look of the coachroof, as long as they are kept sparkling (which is impossible with the original cheap vinyl vents)

So, the stainless upgrade is worthwhile, but you’re into $500.
I’m not opposed to spending money to just make your 49 look classier. I’ve written the book on that one.