Name: Norm Waggy
email: wagfam@bnin.net
subject:
Just received a couple of pictures which I'm inserting in the earlier message on replacing windows and companionway door - Jim
I replaced the windows and the hatch door with Lexan--about $70 for a large enough piece for all through our local glass dealer. Was able to remove the screws inside, then (carefully, and with only 1 crack in one frame) pry off the frames with screwdriver and puttyknife. Cleaning up the frames with puttyknife and sander took hours. Then sealed in the new Lexan and frames with 100% silicone aquarium sealant, before replacing the screws. Some of the others here have suggested making larger Lexan pieces to overlap the window cutouts, then bolting through and dispensing with the frames. I think that would be stronger, but I wanted to try to maintain the original look.
The companionway hatch is a single sheet of Lexan (from the same $70 piece)with a wooden strip inside and out at the bottom which rests on the fiberglass at the bottom of the hatch (through-bolted, to stop the door from sliding too far down and spreading the sides), and another wooden strip inside and out at the top (also through-bolted), for the hasp to lock into the sliding cover. Each strip has brass knob-handles for easier handling. I like the light this allows into the cabin, and when privacy is needed, I hang a cloth over the top. Would be easy to add velcro tabs for an inside curtain.
Would be happy to send a picture if anyone is really interested. This isn't professional, but it works for me.
Norm, (Santa Marita #2118)
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