cockpit locker strut/stay

[huyrob]

I am looking for a hydraulic stay or similar to stop my rope locker lid landing on my fingers. The lid isn't that heavy so doesn't need to be too powerful however some of the stays I have seen in caravan shops etc are too flimsy, needs to be approx 9" closed opening to about 15"any suggestions?

 

[Evadne]

I presume you can't fit something simple like a length of string and a hook, or a prop loosely bolted in so that it pivots down? You could try a gas strut from a car boot, prob'ly only a couple of quid frm a breaker.

 

[rudolph_hart]

Yep, I did this on my cockpit locker, using stainless steel gas struts from RS Components.

Works a treat, and you can adjust the pressure in them to suit the application, using an Allen key.

I also did the same with the chart table top, replacing the original - but tired - coilspring unit.

Hope this helps.

 

[rudolph_hart]

Rob,

I've just noticed who you are (sorry). /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

My boat is a Dehler 35 as well, so you know it will work!

PM or email me if I can help further.

 

[reeac]

[ QUOTE ]
I am looking for a hydraulic stay or similar to stop my rope locker lid landing on my fingers. The lid isn't that heavy so doesn't need to be too powerful however some of the stays I have seen in caravan shops etc are too flimsy, needs to be approx 9" closed opening to about 15"any suggestions?

[/ QUOTE ]

We have a loop of bungee cord which is fastened underneath the lid and can be looped over a winch located on the coaming when the lid is raised. Very simple and works just fine

 

[nicks]

What about the spring style stay?

 

[Stemar]

[ QUOTE ]
What about the spring style stay?

[/ QUOTE ]I had these on Jissel. Perhaps they were badly fitted, but they didn't last long, and I've gone back to the bungee and hook to the guard wire, which does work - unless I forget to hook it on /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

 

[huyrob]

Thanks for all the replies. Unfortunately car tailgate struts are designed for a much heavier load. IAm looking into Rudolph Hart's suggestion and in the meantime am using a length of bungee although i know that I will forget to hook it on !

 

[ShipsWoofy]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
What about the spring style stay?

[/ QUOTE ]I had these on Jissel. Perhaps they were badly fitted, but they didn't last long, and I've gone back to the bungee and hook to the guard wire, which does work - unless I forget to hook it on /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Mine have lasted about 3 years so far, with no signs of deterioration. They are great and do the job admirably, getting ropes out or turning the gas bottle on and off used to be a right pain.

The main thing to remember with the springs is to crack it first before trying to close the lid, forcing the spring to collapse by pushing down on the lid is surely going to weaken the springs.

I bought mine from Force4. page here