Mk II Rear hatch and fastenings query

[Nigel Craig]

I have just purchased Wayfarer no. 10114, and I am carrying out some fettling before taking it down to the water.

I wonder if anyone can help me with a query on the hatch cover over the rear buoyancy tank.  It appears to be original, and comprises a lid which simply sits on top of the opening.  It is then strapped down by two straps across the top.  There are no sides to the top, so it is literally sitting on top and can be pushed sideways off the hole if the straps are not tight.  All other boats that I have seen have different catches, but this one appears to have been built this way.

Does anyone else have the same type of hatch?

My inclination is to fit some side pieces to the lid so that it locates over the hole, but I don’t want to re-invent the wheel if someone has already come up with a solution.

Thanks

[AEJ Livsey]

Nigel, thank you for your question. I have no answer, only the same concern, so I am interested in any replies. Thank you, Andrew

[Nigel Craig]

Hi, Andrew

As I hadn’t heard anything I used a spare piece of perspex that I had to make four tabs, and bolted one to each side of the lid so that they overhang the bottom part.  It stops it sliding about.  If you were proficient with GRP you could doubtless make beautiful ones that completely matched, but my aim was something simple for now, and easy to remove, in case there was a proper solution.

[AEJ Livsey]

Nigel, thank you very much. That seems a very sensible idea and, importantly, within my capabilities. Thank you, Andrew

[john1162]

After some time the seal will deform and not seal as well. You can buy a range of seals from sealsdirect which will work well. Go for the closed cell neoprene  rather than the solid.

[Nigel Craig]

Thanks, John

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