Solar Ventilation units

[skipper65]

Purchased a solar ventilation unit for my 81 Catalina27. Was planning to install in place of forward cap/hole over the v-birth. I have a few questions.

1. Do these really work in keeping inside dry?
2. How long do they last generally?
3. Factory cut-out is 3".....wouldn't you know install calls for a 3 3/4" cut-out. How do you expand the cutout....just a basic round bit on a drill like used to cut circles in wood? Will this expanded cut cause any structural problems?
4. Do you just screw the unit into place once fitted in place?
5. Do you use any caulking around base to prevent leaks?

Sorry for all try questions, but new to working on boats. Don't want to screw anything up.

Thanks in advance for any help provided.

 

[jrowan]

I've installed several 4" diameter Nicro vents over the years. Make sure that the solar power rechargeable battery is good before installing it. I've bought a couple that had batteries go dead after about a week or so. Test run it for a while in a sunny spot first. Next buy a good quality, 3" large daiameter hole saw to fit on a corded drill. Cordless drills are not usually strong enough. U need major torque to cut through 1/4" of outer fiberglass, then 3/4 " of wood core, then another 1/4 inner glass sandwiched together.
After cutting, make sure U thoroughly seal the inner edges of the exposed wood core with good quality epoxy, 4200 or lifeseal or Butyl tape, etc. but make sure your opening seal is watertight or you'll rot the deck core. The solar vents help a lil, but don't expect miracles. I installed mine over the head, as this can always use better ventilation in any boat. Pick an area to install that's as flat as possible, but not where your likely to step or trip on it. Good luck.

 

[cat38skip]

I agree with everything that JRowan says, EXCEPT that I never mounted a vent through the deck. I have installed several vents through hatches. There is already a hole in the boat there and you really don't lose enough light to matter (IMHO). You normally dont step on hatches so that is a plus for using the hatch. Be very careful when cutting the plastic and seal with butyl tape or 4200. Most vents come with a plug so you can remove the vent and seal the hole if you will be taking water over the deck.
My current vent in the salon hatch is 11 yrs old and I am on the 2nd battery. On the Cat30 You probably have the curved & molded fiberglass hatch cover over the V-berth. I'm not sure if you can find a flat 4" diameter space there but it is worth trying to avoid penetrating the cabin top core.