(September 2, 2002) Decided this morning to build an opening hatch behind the seat so the battery and gas tank could be moved further forward and somewhat hidden. It also provides a place for storing life vests and miscellaneous. Built the hatch by eliminating the aft strong back and replacing with a hatch frame. (See photo.) It overlaps the 1-inch coaming about a half inch and overlaps the seat back and aft deck frame completely. The underside will be primered and painted with the Deck Kote paint previously detailed. The photo shows it resting on the motor, opening rearward. When the piano hinge is installed after the cedar decking is on, it will probably open to the side. Also put on the third coat of varnish which is getting really shiny (see photo) and built a tray for the gasoline tank. The gas tank tray -- also to be finished in Deck Kote -- has gaps in the forward and rear rails so any water can drain (see photo). The tank will be held in place with rubber straps.
Best to all,
Art