I've replaced the "glass" in both of my Canpa hatches with grey tinted Lexan (polycarbonate). Lexan is very strong and has worked well for me. The key to installing polycarbonate into the Canpa hatch frame is to make absolutely sure that the caulk/sealant that you use to bed the polycarbonate into the frame is suitable for use with polycarbonate. Many of the "marine" silicone sealants available at marine chandleries are not at all suitable for use with the polycarbonate although they may advertise that they are suitable for most plastics.
A marine supplier that does hatch repair supplied me with a non-marine GE Silicone Sealant ( GE Silpruf )specifically formulated for use with the Lexan. It was actually a structural architectural sealant for use in construction of windows for commercial buildings. It has worked beautifully for years, i.e. no leaks.
You might also check the campernicholson forum at Yahoo.com. You can do a search of the yahoo groups to find the forum and search their archives.
Re: replacement "glass" for Canpa hatches
Question?...doesn't Lexan (polycarbonate) strong as it is,degrade and discolor rather more quickly than alternative products? UV degredation?
As I recall this whole topic was covered recently,and exaustively on this forum...where is it?...( He writes sarcastically )
PS Spell Check still is not working!
Re: replacement "glass" for Canpa hatches
The clarity of the Lexan hatches has clouded somewhat over time; other than that, there haven't been any other issues. No cracking, crazing, etc. Both have been exposed year round to sunlight in southern USA for 5-6 years plus Caribbean weather for over another 3 years since I replaced the original hatch material. I'll gladly accept the haziness for the added strength of Lexan ( polycarbonate).
Boat Windows
You may wish to try Eagle Boat Windows, Unit 2, The Sidings Business Park, North Yorkshire BD23 1TB. Ask for Terry Bond. He is familiar with the Nic 31 and will explain how your side windows can be replaced and sealed. I sent my frames to him and he did an excellent job. It does mean that the interior metal strip has to be removed and replaced by 'cured' sealant. It works out very well indeed. Terry is the named contrator for the RNLI so you may have to wait;he has to give precedence to any work for them first. Give him a call on 01756 792097. I also got him to replace the 'windows' on my hatches after putting my foot throuth a heavilly crazed forehatch! He replaced it with very robust and thick perspex. You will have to remove and sent him your old frames etc. He can even supply the plastic ribbing for the external surround. Good Luck. Pct Swans Way
jpbsail
Unregistered User
(19/10/05 4:22 pm) Reply
Hatches
I have replaced the "glass" of both hatches with 12mm Altuglas. It was a very lengthy job due to the fact that several owners tried to fix leaks with inappropriate methods, but it is leak proof now. Used Sika products with all the recommended primers.
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