Installing opening ports?

[Rick19354]

Has anyone installed opening ports within the existing plastic windows on the S2? in my 9.2A, the factory did this with the head port, but I would like to add two more on each side in the salon windows. Beckson (and others) makes a black framed port which would seem to work.

I'm concerned with the existing windows. They are crazed, but otherwise work fine and do not leak, but I'm afraid they may simply disintegrate if/when I cut the holes for the new ports.

I need to do something as ventilation was suspect this summer in the Keys and planning a trip to Abaco next summer. I might add one or two small deck hatches in the salon, as well, but ports would be the first solution.

Thanks for any help or insight.

Rick

 

[BobM]

I thought about doing the same. I suggest you think about how you use your boat and how ventilation works.

My boat is on a mooring. On a mooring or at anchor your boat's bow will be into the wind. Therefore if there is a breeze, ventilation is not a problem. I bought a wind scoop and a screen for the hatch in the vee berth. That hatch is huge and is very effective in ventilating the whole boat when it can be opened. They even make canopies to cover forward hatches if it is raining.

I considered more hatches, but in reality there really aren't a lot of good locations for hatches on the 9.2A. I could fit a small one behind the mast, say 10 x 10 or perhaps a really small one in the head. Adding them to the fixed portlights sounds like a good idea, but as you say, it seems best to add them to new fixed portlights. I am betting that the crazed old ones won't survive the process. However, the factory port in the head seems to be fine. No cracks around it. I just have cracks on both sides forward of where it is where the fixed portlight is perhaps bent the most. I need to replace all mine and I'd suggest you do what I am looking into doing...making sunbrella covers to protect as much of my new lexan as possible. Forward and companionway hatches will be easy. Fixed portlights on the side will be more entertaining to figure out mounting, but given your location this is especially critical for you.

My biggest ventilation problem is when the hatches are closed. I think that low profile solar vents is the way to go, or 12V with a larger solar panel aboard (the 12V fans will move a lot more air). Intake in the main cabin and perhaps exhaust . That should keep the boat nice and fresh when I am not around.