FRONT HATCH

[PAUL T.]

Hello All........ I am looking for a replacement front hatch for the 1987 vintage c34. I am looking for one that I saw but can't remember where. The hatch I'm looking for is tinted plexiglass and replaces the solid fiberglass one without any cutting or modification.   Thanx for the help........PAUL

[Stu Jackson]

Paul

Try www.cruisingconcepts.com

They advertise in Mainsheet magazine.

Also do a search on front hatch or both words individually.  You may find that replacing a solid front hatch may NOT be the way to go.

[PAUL T.]

Thanx for the quick comeback Stu!!!  I did a search. Are there any other issues other than light coming through the hatch in the morning?   Thanx again.........PAUL

[Jon Arck - Past C34IA Commodore]

Paul,

If light in the am (or lack of privacy in close quarters) bothers you, why not install roll-up shades?  I installed them in the vee berth and main salon, and feel a lot cozier at night (and sleep better/later in the morning).  And they look pretty good, too.

[Mike Denest]

My forward hatch is cracked so I'll be looking for one also.  Right now, Red Green's duct tape is holding it firm.

[Tom Glennon]

While on the subject of 1987 vintage forward hatches... mine seems to have a little "weep" where the gasket material joins... I did slice it at an angle to try and eliminate the dead-butt. Any suggestions out there?

[Ted Pounds]

I had the same problem.  I opened the joint and sqeezed in some caulk, the same stuff I used to bed the glass. Wiped off the excess and let it dry.  Seems to have solved the drip.   

[Jon Schneider]

You don't have to buy a whole new hatch.  I had Select Plastics (www.selectplastics.com) replace the lens on my forward hatch.  I think it cost about $350.  It's unbelievable to be able to look out with a clear view while sailing!

[Ron Hill]

For the readers info: The 1986/early 87 came with an opaque forward hatch (like a C30), the 1987 had a Bomar with an adjusting arm, the 1988 thru 1992? had the Lewmar (trouble some) Rollstop hatch.  The 1992 and later have the new Lewmar with the improved hinges.