This is an archived message posted to the Kayak Building Bulletin Board. If you would like to ask a question about building kayaks, you can post a new message.
> Has anyone else seen this catalogue/item? Thoughts? TNX, Scotty Here
> (maybe) link...
Neat idea. But a couple of cautionary thoughts.
First, you're going to need a lot of absolutely flat deck area to mount the base --- my guess is a 13" to 14" diameter area --- or the "top" won't screw in and out properly. That's both a lot of deck and a lot of *flat* deck area for most boats. I've installed six inch deckplates in some of my composite boats, and I had trouble finding that much real estate.
Second, these things will leak with time. Sand and grit will get into the threads and onto the "O" ring --- assuming that's how they provide the watertight seal --- and you'll get some seepage. Not a lot, but definitely some. (I use them in areas where I'm going into the cockpit, not where I'm going into a bulkhead-protected storage area. But I'm also using small ones. Four or six inch types.)
As an option, using the same principle and the same budget range, consider using deck plates in lieu of hatches. Six inches is as big as they come, I believe, but they're low profile (essentially flush, maybe an eighth of an inch proud of the surface), come in black or white flanges and the screw-in cap can be had in clear, if that's a benefit to you. They do a pretty good job of excluding water if you're careful. Down side is that they're small and would probably not do if you're building an expedition boat, but they're okay for day trips and even overnights, if you have some side-crushing compression sacks for your soft gear. Or you can mount them vertically in your aft bulkhead and insert long items directly into the storage area. Or both. (Forward one, too, if you've installed it far enough aft to reach it.)
There's another option using the deckplate systems made for Hobie Cats and other small sailing craft: a deckplate with a flange to hold the top of a nylon bag. Makes a great "glove box" in the foredeck, with the bag hanging down between your knees. You can get to small items --- glasses, VHF, lunch --- without opening your skirt. Downside is that you need some flat space in the foredeck to attach the flange, you probably want to stay with a four inch deckplate opening, and these things don't seal and definitely leak a little. But that's why you have a footpump!
Jack
This is an archived message from The Kayak Building Bulletin Board.
Guillemot Kayak - High
Performance Wooden Sea Kayak Designs
