74 Seacraft Tsunami

[abl1111]

I have a '75 Tsunami and if I want to get through the hatch onto the deck, I remove the hinged hatch completely and stow it below. I usually do this anyway before I even leave my boat slip. There is a ladder that is securely mounted/easily removed - it leads up to the deck for easy access.

No doubt, the companionway hatch is a pain-in-the a-s, even when in brand new condition - which mine is close to. I have not been able to think of a way of changing it and making it work any better - and have decided to deal with it - it is a necessary evil for this boat ( like the 'flooding scuppers' ). I really make use of the cabin below and specifically searched for a Potter built Tsunami for that reason.

Looks like you have yourself a nice project. Good luck.

[jongolds]

Alright now, I see how the thing works and I think I may be able to get mine back by just removing some screws on the hatch and cracking the paint on the window frame. Much easier than I'd feared...If I'm right that is. True it doesn't seem like the easiest set up but it will do for now and beats trying to reinvent the wheel.

My 73 is the one that was listed on this site right before Thanksgiving. That's actually how I found this place.

[jorgeinmiami]

If 90% of the reason to go up front is to place or reteive the anchor maybe a windlass would be the answer.

My brother has a 36 Searay and hates to go around the side of the boat if its choppy, now he just hits the switch and up and down you go.

[Jaizzen]

I don't fish, so I can count on one hand in 10 years that I've anchored a boat. We spearfish so there is no anchoring. The hatch seems fine to me, if I had to get up there, it would provide ample access. The deck space and amount of weight the boat is capable of handleing is why I chose this particular boat.

I've read about usung Coosa Board for decks and transoms on this site. I just got a quote for 191.00 a sheet! OUCH. Looks like ply wood it is. I am friends with a cabinet maker who can get me a dense, light weight plywood (3/4")at cost. Any suggestions of the particular wood to use?
Thanks for all of the help!

Jason

[jongolds]

I'd consider a windlass but would still like to restore things to how they were/should be. If it's still inconvenient a windlass may be the answer. It is one more item to maintain though. Another thing to break or go wrong. The anchor on there now has an all rope rode (no chain) which might make things easier on a windlass as well. I think you still need to go up there to mechanically secure things though. The windlass should only be used for raising or lowering the anchor right?