Lazarette Hatch Latches – An Option

[Syzygy]

For what it's worth...

Peace of mind for those who wonder what would keep a lazarette hatch closed during an unlikely knockdown. Or, when you must leave the dock and you're not certain that your gas and expensive battery (for Bewildered) will still be there when you get back. Or, like myself, you keep the boat on a trailer in a yard that is occasionally prowled.
Well, I had trouble finding latches that fit my Eclipse's hatches. And, I'll say right from the beginning that this solution is merely adequate. Folks have probably come up with WAY more creative or dignified solutions, but here is mine.

I must note that the port side lazarette had a bit of an overbite, so in the images, you may notice a small wooden spacer I used to correct it. I don't notice it unless I get up close and really look at it.

The latch was chosen for its small size, minimal impact to the boat, and it was lockable, The pin that it latches to has a cam action so that you can loosen or tighten the latch as required for good fitment. I used some tubular aluminum to secure the lower fastener, but it's just one way to accomplish it. A piece of wood could be used, etc.

Here is the part number and description of the latch:

P/N 260-1142 Small Over Center Latch with Padlock Eye (Brand: Marinetown). A quick web search should find them. It can carry a ¼" hasp padlock (rubber coated body preferably).

Body: mounting was via a wood screw on the upper position, and through bolted (machine screw with nut) on the lower position

Cam Pin: mounting was via wood screw

Final thoughts: I like that the fasteners are all hidden, that everything is all rounded (I might bump the latch, but the latch won't scratch), and that the device came with a nice plastic template to ensure things aligned well. If a thief really wanted into the hatch, nothing would likely stop them, but that is true regardless of any lock and its location.

[alsantini]

Looks great and they might find their way onto my Horizon....  Sail On,  AL

[Bewildered]

Once again, nicely done.  If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, consider yourself flattered. 

[Bewildered]

Thanks for the photos etc.  However, It is still not clear on how the hasp is secured to the lazzerete lid.  The photos do not clearly depict that important part of the project.  Could you please clarify this?  Perhaps with a photo of what is providing a secure attachment to the lazz. lid.

[bruce]

Here's the draw latch he used. As he states, the strike was mounted to the lid with a wood screw. The latch was mounted with a wood screw on the top, and machine screw at the bottom. He also says that he used a piece of aluminum tube as a stand off to make up for the wood trim when mounting the flat latch body. Click on the drawing for a better view.

https://www.boatoutfitters.com/small-over-center-latch-with-padlock-eye?srsltid=AfmBOooB2c6nfJ5MaKIJLUztDkaXhL3vq99KS5Gq8Kwxzp-EmF1EAqyO

[Bewildered]

 Bruce,
Those photos provide an answer to my question.  Much thanks to you Sir.

[Syzygy]

More images.

The the cam action (to adjust the latch tension) can be seen on the circular keeper. A small white dot aids in orientation.

I chose fasteners that would not penetrate into the fiberglass; just the teak. 316 SS on all.

Exception: the machine screw that is secured inside the compartment. Drill a small clearance hole. The small grey nut in the image is on the back side (inside).

The aluminum tube was 3/8" or 1/2" but it doesn't really matter. It was cut to be as long as the teak was thick minus the thickness of the washer under it.

The latch has a spring action on the handle portion to keep it down (dejigglifies in bouncy conditions!).

Perhaps this helps. Keeping your uptime optimized...