Fuel Tank Hatch/Cover Question?

[jjcwheeler]

I'm scheduled to have my 1976 20' center console topside painted next week and while removing hardware I was reminded that the fuel hatch/cover in front of my center console is soft and I don't know if I should check it out before I invest in the paint job? I have owned the boat for about 4 years and the hatch in that area has always been that way. The guy I bought it from didn't know anything more, he was not the original owner so I don't even know if the fuel tank has ever been replaced? Obviously it would make sense to check it out before I get the paint job but I really don't know what I am looking for? I have no experience with this type of thing so I'm a little afraid of what I might find. What is the hatch made of? If it needs to be replaced, is that a big deal? What materials and work are involved. I'm just trying to prepare myself. I don't have the skills like I see you guys have on here, but I love my seacraft and want to do the best I can to get her looking good. Thanks

[dsharp]

The hatch should have 1/2" plywood bonded to the hatch with a layer of chopped mat over it. The plywood gets wet and goes soft. You can cut the plywood out from the back, replace with new plywood or coosa board and glass over with chopped mat.

[jjcwheeler]

thank you!