Access to AC in master stateroom

[Cap'n Kirk]

Seems like one thing after another! The AC in the master stateroom on my 1983 53' Extended Deckhouse has gone out. After diagnosing with a tech through a small access hole, we determined that that the only thing wrong is the blower/fan motor. Now the hard part. I cannot see a logical way to get at this air handler. Looks like the boat was built around it. I just spent several hours unscrewing panels in the master closet Where I think the access should be. I unscrew the panels but then they still won't budge. How did they design access to this? Any experience in servicing this unit and how to get access to it would be much appreciated. 20231127_165143.jpg Sorry this is sideways. Not sure why that happened.

[MadHatter53]

Screwed and glued

[SEVEN]

A Sawall with a very sharp blade is going to be your best friend. These boats were built for the first owners only everything was built in and then the walls put up. Very difficult to do any work unless you alter the access.

[Pascal]

Just cut a bigger opening.

[Briankinley2004]

Another blower only lasting 40 years. 1983 must have been an off year in the blower industry.

[SKYCHENEY]

I've had mine apart. Those panels can be removed. Get all of the screws out and use a tiny(thin) pry bar. Don't give up so easily. You CAN DO IT!!

[firbanks]

I've had mine apart. Those panels can be removed. Get all of the screws out and use a tiny(thin) pry bar. Don't give up so easily. You CAN DO IT!!

I was going to suggest cutting a hole in the hull and getting it from the back side so you can keep the cabinet intact...

[piripucha]

As Skychenet said those panels are removable. I can see the screws in your picture. Its not that dificult to remove them. Good luck!

[Sadey]

+2. So far everything has been accessible with a screw driver on ours.

[MadHatter53]

Just a thought, most finish interior screws on my boat are brass and strip very easily so this would be a good time to replace them.