Martinique 3700 engine hatch alignment

[ddodgen@comcast.net]

every time i open the engine compartment i have a hell of a time getting it to close completely. It goes almost all the way and then binds up. I have found that if i close it almost all the way and then manually pull it to the port side it will close, most times. Is there an adjustment that i can do to realign the cover so it will close all the way without manual coaxing?

[A1251]

Either its racking due to a soft core or the hardware is loose or failing. Any soft spots while walking on it?

[ddodgen@comcast.net]

nothing soft. there must be hinges in the stern portion that have adjustments or they might be getting loose. will check next time onboard Thanks

[A1251]

Probably getting loose or the hinges are worn. Good luck with the fix.

[Wess]

I have a 2002,3300 Martinique. The hinges are exposed on the back of the hatch, easy access. Make sure the pin is centered on the lifting mechanism that tends to get misaligned. If it still does that, someone may have put it down with something in the way and it may have sprung/bent the hinges and they need to be realigned or purchase new hinges. Another problem could be is the fiberglass has become soft and the weight of the hatch is bending when closing. Hope this helps. I love that big access to the engine compartment, easy access.

[ddodgen@comcast.net]

thanks for the advise. Havent found the problem yet but with the help i got, maybe soon

[ddodgen@comcast.net]

figured it out. After alot of trial and error i found that if the bench located on the starboard side of the hatch is not raised before the hatch is raised and you let the hatch raise it on its own the hatch will bind when lowered. What happens is that as the hatch is lowered it will start to push against bench with alot of force which will not allow the hatch to close. If i raise the bench before opening hatch and leave it open when i lower the hatch all is well.

[Wess]

I definitely overlooked that one. I thought you knew you had to lift that and keep it tethered with the fastener that is connected to it. Mine will not even go up unless that seat is in the up position. Luckily you didn't break it.

[ddodgen@comcast.net]

never knew. I would never let it go too far before i stopped it. Glad i learned and glad no damage was done.