Engine hatch lift / ram

[Marco Captain]

Researching a boat I am thinking of buying. Question if I may, is the hatch ram on the Martinique 3700 hydraulic ram or electric ram? Ever have a problem with it being VERY slow to open? What has anyone done who has repaired their hatch lift motor?

Thank you in advance.

[DaveKamp]

I don't know yours specifically, as I've never seen the ram setup on the Mq37... but I've replaced 'em on other boats, and RVs, and other things. MOST linear actuators used on marine hatches are ballscrew electric types, and most of the time, they've got removable pins so you can remove and replace them when they become problematic.

They can get draggy with age... especially if the grease inside has saponified (either from contamination, or incompatible greases)... the motors can get draggy from worn bushings (maligns the brushes on the commutator). Lousy connections, corroded wires, and worn switch contacts all contribute.

And some are naturally geared slow from the git-go...