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Head Door Rebuild

Nick J

Sustaining Member
Moderator
Blogs Author
What started off with a simple idea of removing the head door to trim the top has evolved into a complete overhaul. The hinge won’t open past 60 degrees which isn’t necessary due to the mast, but it made me realize just how bad of shape it was in. The latch is completely corroded and useless and there are water stains on the bottom and middle rails.

I’m not quite sure what to do with the stains, but I’ve ordered a new stainless piano hinge and latch. Only 3 screws were stripped removing the hinge which isn’t bad considering there were 72 in total, but those 3 were a pain. LH bits and easy-outs worked on 2. I resigned to just leaving the third in the door and skipping that screw for the new hinge.

I’m still struggling with the latch. The handles and basket were easy enough to remove, but I can’t seem to get the latch body out of the door and I’m worried about damaging the door further than it already is. Does anyone have any tricks for removing this thing? 20200330_170916.jpg20200330_171151.jpg20200329_143806.jpg20200329_153731.jpg20200330_171157.jpg
 

Christian Williams

E381 - Los Angeles
Senior Moderator
Blogs Author
Worth a shot trying to find a replacement for the original so the hole can stay. .


For that water damage, try gently scrubbing and some varnish. The color may come back. Most varnish darkens wood anyhow, and I have found such damage to disappear with a dab of Schooner satin.
 

Nick J

Sustaining Member
Moderator
Blogs Author
A Win!! It wasn't easy or pretty, but I'm excited to have this one checked off the list. I had to carefully cut the latch housing with a hacksaw, tap it away from the bore with a punch, then tap it out. Overall, it took a few hours just to get it out. The new latch fit the hole perfectly, but the spindle was too long for the 1/2" door. I had to cut the spindle down then extend the threads with a die. The hinge should arrive tomorrow. I'm hoping to have it back up by Friday. I'm not sure when the varnish will be here, but I think I can take care of that on the boat. This one feels good.
 

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Nick J

Sustaining Member
Moderator
Blogs Author
Perko is crazy expensive and the quality isn't anywhere close to justifying it. I found the hardware on Amazon. It's about the same quality as Perko, but with a price that's more inline with what you get.

I really like the latch idea for venting. I'm going to have to incorporate that. Thanks!
 
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