Catalina Retrofit Hatch
READ CAREFULLY PRIOR TO INSTALLATION
DO NOT DRILL HOLES & DO NOT REMOVE PROTECTIVE PAPER BEFORE CHECKING HATCH FOR PROPER FIT. If you are not completely satisfied you may return the hatch in its original packaging only if no holes have been drilled and it is in the same new condition as received.
Many Catalina's have been built over the years and we have seen that each one may be a little different than the next. Therefore, the new hatch may require six longer screws, which secure the hatch dogs and adjustable arm because the acrylic hatch is thicker than the old fiberglass hatch. Be sure everything fits prior to drilling.
You are responsible for the proper installation.Prior to installation, check your existing hardware to be assured it is in good condition and in need of replacement. The older CATALINA vessels have the weather seal attached to the hatch itself, this will need replacement. Call your local marine store or boat dealer for recommendations.
1. DRILL (PREFERABLY BRADPOINT
DRILL TO PREVENT CHIPPING.)
2. WRENCHES & SCREW DRIVER
3. CLEAR SILICONE SEALANT
4. SIX LONGER STAINLESS STEEL SCREWS
To start:
Remove all the nuts and bolts from the old hatch; keep the hinges attached
to the boat. Do not remove the hinges from the deck. Use your old hatch
as a template or example for the new.
Place the new hatch in the opening. Center the hatch in place. Place the hinges down on to the new hatch with the hatch in the closed position. Be sure the placement is centered prior to drilling. When you drill acrylic, drill very slowly, preferably with a Bradpoint drill. Drill a hole for each hinge; port and starboard side. Install a nut and bolt temporarily to allow for the hatch to be secure for the further drilling and installation of the nuts and bolts. BE SURE TO DRILL SLOWLY.
Next, with the hatch dogs go down below into the interior of the boat and align them with the female latch to the new hatch. Mark as required for drilling. Go back on deck and lift the hatch to drill the hatch dogs in place.Repeat the same instructions for the hatch adjuster arm. Always look at the old hatch for a general reference.
Once you have drilled all the necessary holes, install the nuts and bolts with silicone sealant, as per the manufacturers requirements. Be sure not to tighten and squeeze all the sealant out of the hole prior to the sealant drying. If required, this is the time to install the new weather seal ON THE HATCH AND/OR THE DECK MOLD.
Teak shims have been included for the CATALINA 34' & 36' SAILBOATS. YOUR NEW HATCH MUST FIT FLUSH WITH THE DECK. The teak may not be necessary but be sure to check. Sand or trim the teak shim for the hinge & hatch to fit flush with the deck mold.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Always wash with mild soap by using a soft terry cloth. Never use a hard
scrub brush on the hatch. To polish use a mild automobile polish or with
MIRROR GLAZE PLASTIC POLISH. Scratches may be minimized with MIRROGLAZE
PLASTIC CLEANER.
We wish you many years of enjoyment with your vessel. Please let us know what you think about the hatch. All products are guaranteed. For additional information, phone or fax (360) 376-2975 or 1-800-899-3996.