RE: [Paddlewise] hatch fasteners

From: Chuck Holst <cholst_at_bitstream.net>
Date: Sat, 28 Dec 2002 11:06:32 -0600
>>
Anyone out there have a good solution for hatch fastener systems? I have a
Pygmy Coho into which I am now (reluctantly after one season of use) going
to put bulkheads/hatches. I'm a little leary of Pygmy's system of cams and
straps. Any ideas out there?    Thanks! Mike O'B
>>

A fellow in our kayak club made a stich-and-glue kayak in which the hatch 
covers are held down by internal bungees. Two wooden hooks are built into 
opposite sides of the hatch cover or the hatch and a mating bungee loop is 
mounted opposite each hook. When fastening the hatch cover, first place one 
bungee loop over its matching hook, then do the same with the other while 
stretching it. Let go, and the cover will snap into place. To remove the 
cover, pull it up against the tension of the bungee cord, reach inside, and 
unhook the bungee.

I'm sure this method applies more downward pressure on the hatch seal than 
any strap system. The builder says he has never had a leak when rolling. 
Also, using this system gives a cleaner (uncluttered) deck. I thought it 
was very ingenious the first time I saw it. I still do.

Chuck Holst


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Received on Sat Dec 28 2002 - 12:20:13 PST

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