Aluminum Extrusion

[eze2bme]

The large engine access hatches on my 1979 43DC are in the salon, and to open them I have to move the furniture. I want to cut the outboard hatches in half as this would give adequate access for routine maintenance. They are wood framed with plywood over and insulation between the wood framing. Does anyone have a source for aluminum extrusions in a "T" shape that I can use to reinforce the cut and provide support? Thanks.

 

[Trojan]

I just asked the same question a few months back. Any carpet store has them. Hatch trim. About $7.00 bucks for a 10 ft. strip.Silver or gold. Bill

 

[Walter P]

Years ago I had the same problem and I cut the outboard hatches in half next to the wood cross support and added another wood cross support on the half that needed it. It worked very well as it gave me the access to the outboard side of each engine without moving all the furniture in the salon. Since they are only about 2 ft wide the rigidness was retained.

Walt P

 

[Trojan]

I gave you the wrong answer.I thought you wanted carpet hatch trim. I have 1/4 in angle aluminum the full length of my hatch about 6ft. long.It's screwed to one side of the hatch and the other hatch rest on top of the angle. Bill

 

[divert00]

SAM's has the "T" aluminum strips in 12' sections. They will cut it to lesser lengths for shipping.

 

[eze2bme]

Thanks guys ... I'll give Sam's a call.