Best used for retrofitting larger hatch systems such as those on Cobra kayaks, Wilderness Systems kayaks and P&H Kayaks that have been a problem to retrofit. Can be cut to Oval, Rectangular and A-Shape hatch systems. This panel can also be used for other purposes, such as custom made rudder and skeg blades and rudder sheaves. 24 x 15 x 1/8 inches.
This hatch patch panel can be used for two types of hatch modification...
Close Off Hole Permanently: You can close of a storage space when the proper hatch cover cannot be found. This may be a solution for the discontinued oval hatch on the Wilderness Systems Cape Lookout. This panel can be screwed or riveted directly to a thickly molded hatch rim (or simply on deck) and sealed with silicone sealant.
Reduce Hole Size for Retrofit: You can use this panel to reduce a hatch hole so you can install a smaller deck plate or hatch kit. This may be good option for hard to fit rectangle hatches such as the discontinued Ocean Kayak Prowler Big Game hatch. The process would require removal of the old hatch rim, using it as your template, seal the patch with silicone sealant to the deck, secure with screws or rivets, cut a smaller hole (before or after) for the new hatch, then install the new hatch.
The hatch retrofit process will be fairly simple. First remove the old hatch rim from the kayak (might be secured with screws or rivets. Rivets can be drilled off). Kayaks with molded rims will have to be cut off with a jig saw or Dremel tool. Clean off the old sealant. Use the old rim as your template, if possible, to cut out the shape and drill the holes. Cut a round hatch hole in the panel (see info below). Seal the new hatch rim, to the panel with silicone sealant and secure to panel with stainless steel screws and nuts. Next, seal the panel to the kayak deck with silicone sealant and secure to panel with stainless steel screws and nuts. Wipe up excess sealant before it sets. Wait for sealant to set and apply new hatch cover to new rim.
The process will be similar to a deck plate hatch install. Gain insight on how to install with these links: Installing A Six-inch Hatch and Installing the Cobra A Hatch. See also Rim Replacement for Plastic Kayaks at Pinterest to see the "donut" option.
