Fresh water tank access cover

[BoatTreble]

I was attempting to open the access cover (large trapezoidal piece screwed in as the base of the V berth) of my 1986 CP27.  I got all of the screws out but it seems that the cover is bedded into place as well.  Not sure what bedding material might have been used (it is white in color but thats all I know about it) but it seems to have a pretty secure hold on the thin piece of cover material.  I gently attempted to pry a small section up but quit before I damaged the cover piece.  I was thinking that perhaps heating it with a heat gun might soften the bedding material but not sure if it will do that or even if it might cause it to harden even more securely.

I am hoping someone might have some tips and advice to get this cover up without breaking it.  Thanks in advance!

Al

[crazycarl]

If 3M 5200 was used, you will need a special "anti-bond" spray.  Spray it on, cut off the softened 5200, repeat until it is all removed.  You'll have to slowly pry the board up and spray under it.  It will take time, but it can be done. 

[MHardy]

Very doubtful you can get it off with destroying it. I don't think it was intended to be removed, unless replacing. I replaced mine a few years ago. It was bedded with 5200. Getting the old cover off was the most difficult part of the job. The new one had two inspection ports.

[BoatTreble]

If 3M 5200 was used, you will need a special "anti-bond" spray.  Spray it on, cut off the softened 5200, repeat until it is all removed.  You'll have to slowly pry the board up and spray under it.  It will take time, but it can be done. 

Thank you!  I'll check into that.

Al

[BoatTreble]

Very doubtful you can get it off with destroying it. I don't think it was intended to be removed, unless replacing. I replaced mine a few years ago. It was bedded with 5200. Getting the old cover off was the most difficult part of the job. The new one had two inspection ports.

Thank you!  I'll keep that in mind.  I really only wanted to get an eyeball on that space and the tank so getting under it isn't really necessary.  Food for thought.

Al

[Cruzin]

I would suggest not removing the lid unless it is to be replaced. Mine needed replacing and was taken out in small pieces, a very difficult process. If you replace it only purchase the replacement from Compac as it is well worth it. It must be assembled from 3 pieces in the vberth and is a load of fun. It also comes with an installed port hole with a screw in clear lid for cleaning and inspection. A one piece replacement lid will not fit into the cabin. Good luck just don't mess with it unless you are resealing or replacement.

[deisher6]

Cruzn pretty much said it all.  There should be some threads on water tank woes in the '27 section.
good luck.
regards charlie

[redfishnc]

Why are you removing it?  You can replace the small screw in hatch with the next size up and scrub with a short mop.  Unless it is leaking I would reconsider removal just to inspect.  They make that 8" hatch with a clear lense. 

[BoatTreble]

Why are you removing it?  You can replace the small screw in hatch with the next size up and scrub with a short mop.  Unless it is leaking I would reconsider removal just to inspect.  They make that 8" hatch with a clear lense. 

Zoe doesn't have an inspection hatch or port in the cover.  Apparently this was a later upgrade Hutchins made with them sometime after her build in 1986.