I replaced all my original low profile Lewmar hatches more than 10 years ago with the same models from Lewmar. The lenses and frames are still in great condition (no crazing on lenses, frames are still intact, etc.,).
I have re-bedded some of them over the years (butyl tape) and replaced a handle or 2 that were damaged by racing crew--no big deal or expense and I learned how strong Plexus is in the process. My windows were replaced at the same time, probably with Lexan, and they are now being replaced again. They became so crazed over the same time interval as the Lewmars that they were opaque. Further, they developed leaks so are now being replaced again with acrylic, 3/8" while the Lewmars 'soldier on'. If I ever need to add or replace a hatch, it will be Lewmar again. Charlie Nelson Water Phantom 1995 C&C 36 XL/kcb cenel...@aol.com -----Original Message----- From: Danny Haughey via CnC-List <cnc-list@cnc-list.com> To: cnc-list <cnc-list@cnc-list.com> Cc: Danny Haughey <djhaug...@juno.com> Sent: Thu, Mar 31, 2016 9:02 am Subject: Stus-List Stus List - Leaky hatches and the defender sale Ok so, ALL the hatches on Rum Runner are crazed terribly and they all seem to leak. It is my guess they have never had any type of maintenance over the life of the boat. The plastic handles and latch plates are old, brittle and cracking. Initially I was thinking of trying to rebuild them but, as I now see it that might be a lot more work that replacing them all with new. They are all the old, discontinued Lewmar, IIRC superhatches. I really don't want to spend all the money this year but, life with leaky hatches is a real bummer. The cost of sending the hatches to select platics is the same as the cost of a new hatch without installation and the hatch needs to be out of the boat for weeks. I think I read that it is best to let the hatches cure for a few weeks as well even if I did that myself. Again, leaving me with big holes in the boat. I'm wondering if it might be best to simply replace all the hatches with new Lewmars. I understand they make a hatch with no flange so they can rest on top of the deck and if the shape isn't perfect it is not a big deal. Fill old holes, drill new holes, rebed new hatch. Anyone have any advice on this? Thanks Danny Rum Runner IV Mattapoisett, MA _______________________________________________ This list is supported by the generous donations of our members. If you like what we do, please help us pay for our costs by donating. All Contributions are greatly appreciated!
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