Issue 5
April 2012
Section 8
Windows & Hatches
Original Arrangements
Windows: 23SL
The windows on this model are different from those on the
L23. The material is 10mm Perspex, and the bevelled-edged
windows are affixed to the cabin sides by countersunk
stainless steel screws. The screws do not penetrate into the
cabin because the sides are double skinned, as shown in the
second picture (with the window trim removed). Between
the window and the cabin side, there is a strip of self-
adhesive neoprene which provides the primary seal between window and cabin side. Leaks are
the usual problem, and as can be seen in the photo, sealant has been
applied round the edge of the window. Another slight weakness is that the
countersunk screws tend to act as wedges, and over tightening these in
an attempt to stop leaks can cause the Perspex to split. Over time, the
windows suffer from UV crazing, and there is little that can be done about
this except to replace them. There is information later in this Section
about replacing windows.
Windows: L23
The two pictures (right) well illustrate the different
window arrangements in the L23. The inner skin has
moulded-in recesses around the window apertures,
which bring the two skins into contact, though not a
bonded contact. This enables the windows to be
through-bolted. On the exterior there is an alloy trim
with a thin silicone sealing to the cabin side.
Internally a wood trim surrounds the window, with
the 'nut' of the nut and bolt. This fixing is an inter-
screw with, unlike the picture, a countersunk screw, where the 'nut'
is a blind screw, with the shank threaded on the inside.
When
refitting the screws into the aluminium frame, the hole should be
covered with a thin layer of silicone to avoid contact corrosion and
leaks. The main problems with this form of construction are leaks,
which can cause the interior wooden surrounds to rot. The only solution is to fabricate new trims.
The old trims should be removed carefully to serve as templates for the new ones.
Hatches: 23SL
There are two hatches, excluding the anchor locker lid, the main and the forehatch. The main
hatch is a double-sided moulding, which slides on two troughs in the garage roof and is retained
in place by two teak mouldings. It is easily removed for cleaning or repair:
•
Remove the few pan headed screws securing the garage top to the deck and lift it away.
•
Remove the countersunk screws securing the two teak mouldings each side of the hatch
and carefully prise away – there should be sealant at least around the screw holes.
•
Lift the hatch away.
•
Replacement hatches are available from LOA suppliers,
Hurst Marine
The fore hatch is also a double-sided moulding, which is secured to the deck by two ‘rubber’
hinges. Many of these hinges have deteriorated with time, and now show severe cracking.
The LOA has sourced replacement items, which are available from Hurst Marine, together with
20
