I need to install new opening ports on my H25, and want to upgrade without breaking my budget. A couple of years ago I replaced the flimsy original hatch with a Lewmar Ocean 60, and am very happy with it, so I'm leaning toward buying the Lewmar standard opening ports to match the look of the hatch. I'm not looking to squander money on the project, but price is the least important factor since I plan to keep this boat for many years, and I only want to do the job once. Safety, ease of installation, durability and interior fit are most important to me. I plan to do some coastal cruising in the Gulf when I retire next year, and would also like to trailer the boat to the Sea of Cortez someday. The trailer rebuild is underway right now. Which ports protrude the least into the cabin? I'm tired of banging the back of my head on the plastic dogs of the original Gray ports, which jut out about 2" into the cabin. Based solely upon the chandlery photos, it looks like the Lewmars would provide the sleekest finish, inside and out. Are there any serious installation issues with any of the brands & styles of replacement ports? Randall
Which opening ports for my H25?
- Thread starter Randall9223
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From your picture. . .
it appears that you have what we call '5 by 12s(six)' and '7 by 15s(two)'. I have only ever installed New Found Metals to replace Gray. But from that experience I can tell you that matching the size is the most important issue. Otherwise you have to glass in shims or cut the holes larger. Much easier to cut a larger opening. The second issue is drainage. I can not speak to the Lewmars. The best price/performer in this category is the Beckson "Rain-Drain" model. But I think there is a size issue with those. The NFM Tri-matrix( http://www.newfoundmetals.com/pme/index.html ) is a popular Gray replacement and the sizes do match. See the Related Link for sizing info. As for interior protuberance I cannot speak to that for any brand.
it appears that you have what we call '5 by 12s(six)' and '7 by 15s(two)'. I have only ever installed New Found Metals to replace Gray. But from that experience I can tell you that matching the size is the most important issue. Otherwise you have to glass in shims or cut the holes larger. Much easier to cut a larger opening. The second issue is drainage. I can not speak to the Lewmars. The best price/performer in this category is the Beckson "Rain-Drain" model. But I think there is a size issue with those. The NFM Tri-matrix( http://www.newfoundmetals.com/pme/index.html ) is a popular Gray replacement and the sizes do match. See the Related Link for sizing info. As for interior protuberance I cannot speak to that for any brand.
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