Splash well deck plate/bilge access

[Basketcase]

So. I'm sick of reaching through a tiny pie plate to access the bilge in my 20 Sceptre. I am planning to cut a larger hole and install a 10x20 armstrong hatch in its place. Anyone done this? Good idea? Bad idea? I need to do something. Its hell trying to do anything in there. I cant be alone in this. At first I hesitated because it is in the splash well, but the armstrong deck plates have a good reputation for water tightness.

[JBASS02]

that was one of the first things I did when I got my boat. I think it was a ~14x23 hatch. Well worth it.

[uncleboo]

Never looked back...
http://www.classicseacraft.com/commu...1&d=1620067014

[uncleboo]

I can sit on the floor, have both feet in the bilge and can access everything in that area.

[Old'sCool]

If I move the buckets I can sorta crawl inside

[strick]

Nice...gotta have room.

strick

[bumpdraft]

http://www.classicseacraft.com/commu...ad.php?t=24155

[wattaway2]

Originally Posted by Old'sCool

If I move the buckets I can sorta crawl inside

Nice work!

[Basketcase]

All those look great. I'm talking about actually putting it in the splash well and replacing the round one that is there. See pic. There is a real concern about water in the bilge from this hatch, but from what I read, the armstrong plates are pretty tight. More solid even than this round one.

[uncleboo]

The ONLY reason I didn't put mine further back was because I intend to put a bulkhead there. I've bent the pvc board, just haven't installed it yet.