Hatch help!!!!

[Melven]

I got my hatch installed but it sticks out funny on the bottom. Any suggestions? Thanks guys.

[emiller]

Draw latch might work to pull it in when down on locked.

[Gage]

Build it again. This time build it to the tear and fit check it to the tear before you install it. Take your time and check your work as you go. Don't get in a hurry and don't 'short cut'.

"hatch framing completed, now to locate hinge & latch"


"fit check & looking for spring back, looks good, no spring back"

[Melven]

Build it again. This time build it to the tear and fit check it to the tear before you install it. Take your time and check your work as you go. Don't get in a hurry and don't 'short cut'.

"hatch framing completed, now to locate hinge & latch"


"fit check & looking for spring back, looks good, no spring back"

This is actually the second time I built it. and it fit fine before I put the skin on. I may have to build it again but I would really like to make it work if I can. When I push in on the bottom it does sit flush. Yours looks great by the way

[Gage]

This is actually the second time I built it. and it fit fine before I put the skin on. I may have to build it again but I would really like to make it work if I can. When I push in on the bottom it does sit flush. Yours looks great by the way

Are you using 1/4" or 1/8" ply? That may be part of your problem. People just don't understand that 1/8" will work with fewer problems and is plenty strong. If the bottom will push in easy, then you might consider doing what Eddie suggested using 'Draw latches'.

[Melven]

This is actually the second time I built it. and it fit fine before I put the skin on. I may have to build it again but I would really like to make it work if I can. When I push in on the bottom it does sit flush. Yours looks great by the way

Are you using 1/4" or 1/8" ply? That may be part of your problem. People just don't understand that 1/8" will work with fewer problems and is plenty strong. If the bottom will push in easy, then you might consider doing what Eddie suggested using 'Draw latches'.

I used 1/4 inch. These draw latches, do I have to make them or is there some on the market I can check out.

I really appreciate your help by the way.

Ken

[Gage]

I used 1/4 inch. These draw latches, do I have to make them or is there some on the market I can check out.
I really appreciate your help by the way.
Ken

Well that's part of your problem. But if you can pull it in easy it can be worked around and then consider it a lesson learned for your next build. Sorry, I don't have a picture of a Draw latch but you can get them at a Big Box Store. Maybe someone will chime in with a picture. There are a couple of teardrops here on the board that have them. Maybe Eddie has a picture.

[emiller]

most Ace Hardware or Home Depots/Lowes sell them and they come in different sizes and type.

[Melven]

most Ace Hardware or Home Depots/Lowes sell them and they come in different sizes and type.

That makes sense. Thanks! I think two of these and the door lock in the middle will do the trick. I think that the hatch will settle in with time. I hope anyway.

What I was picturing was way different in my mind.

Ken

[CliffinGA]

Ken did you have the hatch resting on the floor before you skinned it? Mine for some reason while setting on the concrete developed the same thing where its like warped a little on one side. So I plan on getting some also like that but a little different more like the ones on pop ups that are adjustable and you can add a lock to if needed like this:



Cliff

[Melven]

Ken did you have the hatch resting on the floor before you skinned it? Mine for some reason while setting on the concrete developed the same thing where its like warped a little on one side. So I plan on getting some also like that but a little different more like the ones on pop ups that are adjustable and you can add a lock to if needed like this:



Cliff

I took it off the trailer with a friend and skinned it on a bench. It came out real good except there is a pulling from the skin. I probably should have used a better grade 3/4 inch for the structure of the hatch sides.

I did consider those latches but I have a keyed lock too. Lets see some pics of the way yours came out.

[Jkester]

If you haven't skinned the inside yet you might want to add an additional framing spar beside each one you have installed. Use 3/4 plywood or poplar 1"x? (if you can get the curve). Glue and screw it to the side of the original members and that should help with the springback you are getting from the 1/4" skin.

Good luck,
James in Virginia