The self-contained hydraulic hatch lifter such as the one manufactured by API Marine® or the all- electric lifter from Lenco Marine® are useful for heavy or awkward hatches. There are of course other boat hatch lift systems available when considering replacing the rear hatch lift struts.Īn alternative to the gas filled struts are the hatch springs, the compressed gas hatch adjuster, the riser arms, and the self-contained hydraulic hatch lifter.

Replacing the rear hatch lift struts can be as straight forward as locating a strut of the same length and swapping them. If the gas springs that are manufactured out of mild steel are exposed to salt spray, such as at the rear hatch lift supports of an engine cover, it is possible to replace them with a pair of stainless-steel supports. Hatch struts appear complicated and costly, yet they compare favorably when priced against alternative methods of hatch supports such as a hatch spring or hatch riser arm. The sockets on either end of the hatch lift support snap over the sphere and are ready to provide years of trouble-free service.

Lift support hardware for hatch struts are typically made of two brackets each incorporating a sphere and made from stainless steel that is screwed into the frame and lid of the hatch. Gas springs are available in various lengths and strengths making them ideal for heavy engine cover lift supports. Boat hatch arms were and are still an economical method to keep a hatch from slamming down on one’s fingers whereas gas spring lift support provide that and more with the ease of installation. The gas springs do not only provide hatch support they also provide hatch lift support meaning they make it easier to lift or open a hatch because of the weight. Often the hatch cover or lid if hinged, can benefit with an addition of one or two gas springs. They are not restricted to size, weight or shape therefore making them convenient for accessing an otherwise in accessible space. Hatches are a common component found on any vessel and are either installed horizontal, vertical overhead or flat.

Inboard motor covers