20sf hatch question

[jwclbi]

Hello, I have a 1973 20 SF and the hatch that gives access to the fuel tank has become soft in front of the console. Has anyone ever recored one of these and if so what is the core? A piece of 3/4 plywood? Any information would be great. Thank you

[Vezo, Part II]

Should look very similar to my 1979 fuel hatch. Balsam wood cored. Score the underside of hatch with a circular saw set to correct depth, and go around the perimeter, without cutting glass sides/edges. Then lessen depth and cross score entire underside, making smaller blocks to chisel out/remove wet core. Not all that bad. Had it recored during the refurb with Coosa, or similar foam board. Hope that helps.

Vezo, Part II

[mikeyk]

My hatch was waterlogged due to water intrusion into the core. I took a circular saw and cut out the entire section, essentially ending up with what looked like a small door frame. I replaced this section with 3/4" Airex foam and glassed both sides. While you're at it, locate your fuel sending unit and install an access on your new hatch so you won't have to pull your console, etc. if you ever have sending unit issues. New hatch weighed 20# less than the old one BTW.

[jwclbi]

Ok, thank you for the information. Hopefully it will go relatively easy. Are you getting your rebuild supplies local or ordering? If ordering can I ask where? Thanks again.

[mikeyk]

Originally Posted by jwclbi

Ok, thank you for the information. Hopefully it will go relatively easy. Are you getting your rebuild supplies local or ordering? If ordering can I ask where? Thanks again.

There are many online resources for materials for your project, also there may be boatbuilders in your area who might be happy to sell you the materials you need and have advice. I personally buy most of my supplies from Fiberglass Hawaii https://shop.fiberglasshawaii.com/. Although ordering online is convenient, you can also order by phone and get advice on which products would best suit suit the project. Most of the sales staff have hands-on experience which is more than you can expect from TAP Plastics.