Marinco/Nicro Solar Vent new model

[HMT2]

My boat came to me with two Nicro solar vents. I replaced them five years ago and they have worked well. They both quit about the same time and thanks to the SBO forum I was able to replace the batteries. One is working great. The other is dead. So I bought a new Marinco solar vent that was said to be a direct replacement. Uh nope...not on my Hunter 31. These are three inch vents and the hole is the same size, but I was unable to screw the new style in enough to get it to set. Fortunately, my local chandlery had an old style one in stock, which fit perfectly. Just thought I’d share the new model may not fit your boat too.New model is on the left old model is on the right with the new first mate wondering what the heck I am doing.

 

[rgranger]

First mate looks like he is bored and wants to go sailing.

 

[Jacktar]

New model has the top screw on to a new style deckplate. Old ones just slid in and screwed down.

 

[Hayden Watson]

The documentation says that it "fits the existing hole" not that it mounts to the existing base ring. The writeup I read says that you need to remove the old mounting ring and install the new one.

 

[HMT2]

The documentation says that it "fits the existing hole" not that it mounts to the existing base ring. The writeup I read says that you need to remove the old mounting ring and install the new one.

I took the entire old unit out and put the new one in, including the new style deck plate, it would not screw in far enough to push tight to the deck. There was a good 3/16” space between the bottom of the unit and the deck of my boat.

 

[garymalmgren]

The components are fan motor, solar panel and in some cases batteries.
Not sure about the solar panels but the batteris and motor are easily and in the case on motor very inexpensive to repair.
Gary

 

[HMT2]

The components are fan motor, solar panel and in some cases batteries.
Not sure about the solar panels but the batteris and motor are easily and in the case on motor very inexpensive to repair.
Gary

Thanks for that. I plan on replacing the motor on the old one and keep recycling them.