Forward Hatch Latch

[Jack O'Brien]

For various reasons I think the MacGregor X center-mounted screw-bolt "latch" on the forward hatch is abysmal and I want to change it.

My preference would be something similar to the type of clasp on a toolbox - one in each corner. Anybody know where to get these? Or have you found something else that works well? I can picture a couple of barrel bolts and a handle but not very classy.

[mgg4]

You'll want to make sure whatever you choose can be dogged down tight. You want to be able to create a water-tight seal on that hatch. If you don't get latches that will apply enough pressure on the gasket, you will probably have a wet V-berth.

--Mark

[Dimitri-2000X-Tampa]

I had to bend the little tab further down (that the screw screws into) in order for it to work right. Now, it closes very tightly with the stock latch.

[Frank C]

Agree w/ Jack, I think the stock latch is effective, but very inconvenient. Unfortunately, I've never seen anything "on the shelf" that would adapt very well.

[ronacarme]

On mine the knob threads off the end of the screw when I try to loosen the latch to open the hatch.
Short of epoxy-ing the knob on the end of the screw, any suggestions?

[Frank C]

Mine is still tight - no problem. However, that knob might be sorta "open stock" item. Take it to Home Depot with you, and look in the little orange hardware drawers ... they might have a replacement.

[kmclemore]

On mine the knob threads off the end of the screw when I try to loosen the latch to open the hatch.
Short of epoxy-ing the knob on the end of the screw, any suggestions?

I'd use a little Locktite red (mild holding) on the bit that goes into the knob. Failing that, use Locktite blue (firmer hold).

Cheers,
Kevin

[albion]

My knob came off the third time I used it (wife complained lol) I used epoxy and no trouble since.

[pokerrick1]

On mine the knob threads off the end of the screw when I try to loosen the latch to open the hatch.
Short of epoxy-ing the knob on the end of the screw, any suggestions?

Mine did also - - - but epoxy worked - - - and I also installed a spring latch (with a knob to hold it up in place) to keep the hatch open.

I only open the hatch in the summer anyway - - - too cold (65) in the winter

Rick

[Retcoastie]

I just put a lock nut on ours.

Effective, easy on, easy off!

[Night Sailor]

The sort of latches you describe are commonly used on tool boxes, storage containers, luggage, etc. and are apparently universally called a "cam latch" and are sold at Lowe's, Home Depot and other hardware stores. However, they are all nickel plated steel or aluminum, not stainless. I've used them in various applications on vertical and horizontal surfaces. No reason one or two couldn't be used on the forward hatch for very quick access from the inside if you can find them in stainless.

[ronacarme]

Tried a locknut but it loosened. Did Locktite blue a year ago and the knob is still on, tho I continue past practice of tightening with fingers on the screw, not on the knob, so loosening requires little torque on the knob. No forehatch leaks. Ron

[Catigale]

See Mods here for my forehatch latch...

[eric3a]

..

[ALX357]

Use some kind side-cutter or vise grip hand tool to "bugger" the screw near the tip, on the stock hath latch, and keep it from passing all the way out of the threads. Just make sure the conical tip is still smooth where it pokes into the other fitting to tighten down.
OK, almost everything mechanical comes down to that, no ?
Insert pin Part A gozinta part D, which gozonta part C .... Male threads, female threads, be sure to use a washer ...

By the way, as for the stock latch, it works fine for me, the challenge was to find a way to support and control the hatch position when opened. This took two different kinds of hatch rods, one that had a constant drag, enough to move and hold the hatch in any position, but which is left at that amount of tension, and another that could be easily tightened to keep it wherever. Also a grab-handle on the underside, to allow it to be pulled tight down, as the screw-knob is tightened down, and to give a pull handle boost up when adjusting your position in the berth.