Replacing Contessa 26 Cockpit Floor Panels

[Jonny A]

Hi everyone, I'm looking for recommendations for someone who can do some GRP work for me in the Poole area. My Contessa 26 has been modified at some point in its life to give it a self-draining cockpit. This includes floor panels to give access to the shaft, exhaust and cockpit drain seacock. The fittings for the panels have broken and the previous owner just glued the panels in place. I feel very uncomfortable about this, want to get new panels made up so I can get access again in a hurry if I need to. I realise this won't be a simple job. I was going to ask Andy Middleton but he's tied up for the next few months on another project. Any suggests for who else I can ask? Thanks in advance.

 

[andsarkit]

I raised the cockpit sole of my 26 to make it self draining. I kept the original single panel but it does need sealant as well as the screws to stop any leaks into the bilge. Later ones with a self draining cockpit had the centre raised so that the water drained around the outside.
Jeremy Rogers can fix it for you but it will cost a lot.
Some photos of your modifications will help so we can make sensible suggestions.

 

[anoccasionalyachtsman]

Gordon Wallace, I just sent you a message with his number.

 

[Jonny A]

Thank you both very much. Must admit I am looking to avoid J. Rogers as I'm sure it won't be cheap.

I'm OK if the new panels need sealant, the trouble is at the moment I'd have to smash them to get them out.

 

[ChrissieTwo]

Thank you both very much. Must admit I am looking to avoid J. Rogers as I'm sure it won't be cheap.

I'm OK if the new panels need sealant, the trouble is at the moment I'd have to smash them to get them out.

Are the present panels sealed in and really secure to the sides? If so have you considered cutting a hole over the appropriate area, reinforcing the edges, and fitting an inspection hatch? It's worth looking into the ready made hatches,

 

[ChrissieTwo]

Boat Deck Hinged Flush Inspection Hatch 380x280mm with Hidden Screws 8033137029172 | eBay[/URL]

 

[ChrissieTwo]

I just googled boat deck inspection hatches, from £22 upwards, the guys on here will give you good advice on cutting your hole and reinforcing the edges, it's something that you can do,

 

[Bajansailor]

Here is a clickable link for the hatch that Chrissie mentions above -
Boat Deck Hinged Flush Inspection Hatch 380x280mm with Hidden Screws 8033137029172 | eBay

 

[penfold]

I wouldn't want one of those on the cockpit floor unless protected by a grating.

 

[Jonny A]

Thanks for the suggestions on adding a new hatch, but the existing panels are cracking and it took a lot of work last winter to seal them up to last the season. They definitely need replacing.