1999 SAN -- replaced engine-hatch actuator with gas shocks and latch

[scarbs]

I mentioned in the For Sale section that I am going to convert my engine hatch to a 3-hatch system and had already replaced the actuator with gas shocks. There was some interest in some additional information about how I did this initial stage of the conversion so I thought I'd post it here. It was really pretty easy. I purchased some aluminum rectangle tube and some angle pieces from a local metal supply shop. It sells aluminum drops from $1.50-$2.50 per pound so it always really cheap. Anyway, I made two pillars out of the tube, bolted two pieces of angle on the top and bottom and fastened it all with stainless hardware. Then mounted the brackets and shocks. And finally, mounted the latch. Now it lifts easily using the strap attached to the latch and I have a lot more room in the starboard storage hatch. Total cost so far is about $75.

I plan to finish the hatch after Arizona's long season ends in another couple of months. Sorry for the crappy cell phone pictures.

[s_kelley2000]

Good stuff, thanks for posting! Do you remember what stroke length and weight the gas shocks were rated for?

[scarbs]

Shocks are 20" long and 60 lbs. each.

[stewartsnow]

Any info on where toget the latch and shocks? Great idea, I'd like to make engine dividers this spring and put 750 bags in. The extra room on starboard side would really be nice

[99SAN]

EBay... Look up hatch latch

[JT96SS]

What did you use to screw the brackets into the bottom side of the hatch? The screws on the hinges to my hatch are loose and I cannot tighten them.

[scarbs]

The hinge "screws" should be bolts with nylon nuts on the other side under the vinyl. You may have to pull the vinyl back to get a wrench on them.