Solar Vent Installation

H

hank clow

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Aug 13, 2011
Messages
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C Dory Year
2003
C Dory Model
22 Cruiser
Hull Identification Number
CD022141F303
Vessel Name
Meri Aura
I plan to cut a 3 3/4" hole in the center of the forward hatch to install a solar vent. I did this in a sailboat 20 years ago without a problem. I was told the hatch might shatter.....any comments?

Hank Clow
 
I've cut acrylic, which is what Bomar hatches use, a number of times and it all came out well. Bomar doesn't use Lexan, according to their catalog. Here's a web site on cutting acrylic: Acrylic cutting. Nothing new, except at the bottom is a note on how to anneal the cut. New to me.

I did have a Bomar hatch on a Catalina sailboat that crazed without cutting. Sold the boat, though not because of the hatch.

Boris
 
hank clow":381v7cvy said:
I plan to cut a 3 3/4" hole in the center of the forward hatch to install a solar vent. I did this in a sailboat 20 years ago without a problem. I was told the hatch might shatter.....any comments?

Hank Clow
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Put masking tape on both sides, get out your hole saw & go REALY SLOW with steady even light pressure.
 
Might not a hole saw meant for cutting ceramic tile work better than one for wood/metal?
 
Run the hole saw in reverse for the initial cut. It breaks the surface without causing a crack. Then just go slow.
 
Thanks everyone for your input. One of the many joys of C-Dory ownership is the helpful response from other owners. A shake-down cruise on Lake Superior is coming up followed by the actual installation of the solar vent. Wish me luck.

By the way, we are planning an extended visit to Isle Royale in mid-July and look forward to being joined by any C-Dorys in the area.

Hank Clow
 
Sounds like you won't need it, but just so you know (presuming you have the same Bomar/Pompanette hatch as on many 22's) Pompanette does sell just the replacement lens for the forehatch (and gasket too).
 
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