Hatch leakage
- Thread starter coopert
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Well, I'll start the questions and see if the experts on this board can help.
Is this an overhead hatch or a portlight?
Is the 'Hatch' metal or plastic?
What are the dimensions and shape?
Can you post a picture and describe the amount and location of the leak?
This info will help us zero in on the exact problem.
Is this an overhead hatch or a portlight?
Is the 'Hatch' metal or plastic?
What are the dimensions and shape?
Can you post a picture and describe the amount and location of the leak?
This info will help us zero in on the exact problem.
2005 33ft Hunter sloop with an overhaed hatch. Exterior metak interior plastic. apx 14x15 or so.
How can I post a phto or I can send a photo by cell phone. I can send a picture from my computer of the vessel today but a close up of the hatch.
How can I post a phto or I can send a photo by cell phone. I can send a picture from my computer of the vessel today but a close up of the hatch.
You need to determine where the leak is - either from where the hatch beds into the frame or from the friction device which keeps the hatch up after you open it. Have someone spray a hose at the hatch while you are in the cabin checking for leak. If your hatch is Lewmar, there is a good chance that the leak is from the friction device so tighten the screws which secure it to the glazing. If it is tha gasket, you can buy them from Florida Rigging which is a Lewmar distributor and is located near, I think, the Hunter factory.
Coopert, be aware, though, that the problem might not be the hatch, itself. While it's possible that it is a hatch issue - either the gasketing or friction device - it's altogether possible that it may be a leak from someplace else (toe rail, stanchion base, etc...) which migrates back toward the galley and enters through there.
That's the problem with water and leaks into the cabin. I had an older boat which had a persistant leak at one of the portholes. After starting at the bow with a hose, I finally tracked the incursion point to the toerail up near the bow. I backed off some of the bolts, got some caulking in between the toerail and deck, added some silicone around the bolt heads before re-tightening, and bingo - no more leaks.
That's the problem with water and leaks into the cabin. I had an older boat which had a persistant leak at one of the portholes. After starting at the bow with a hose, I finally tracked the incursion point to the toerail up near the bow. I backed off some of the bolts, got some caulking in between the toerail and deck, added some silicone around the bolt heads before re-tightening, and bingo - no more leaks.
Sometimes just lubricating the gasket is enough to stop a leak. I would try some silicone spray or McLube. Be sure that the hatch & gasket are clean (clean with some wine vinegar if you have it).
You may also need to adjust the tension on the hatch closure mechanism.
You may also need to adjust the tension on the hatch closure mechanism.
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