Stiletto Hatch Question

[The Hammer]

I went to my LHS to check out the ProBoat Stiletto that just came in. I was impressed with the overall quality and rigid layup of the hull and thoughtful design of the outdrive. I was however, a little confused with the clear inner hatch cover and hoped someone (Darin?) might be able to clarify the design intent. I noticed the hatch cover did not "snap" or stay in place when pressed down onto the lip of the internal (battery) compartment. I'm not sure if it is designed to "snap" in place as is or supposed to be taped down (which could be tricky threading the tape under the steering cables that pass directly over it). Me and the shop owner could not figure it out. I'm not criticizing by any means. I would love to own one of these boats, but would like some clarification on this before I do.

Thanks

The Hammer

[Darin Jordan]

I went to my LHS to check out the ProBoat Stiletto that just came in. I was impressed with the overall quality and rigid layup of the hull and thoughtful design of the outdrive. I was however, a little confused with the clear inner hatch cover and hoped someone (Darin?) might be able to clarify the design intent. I noticed the hatch cover did not "snap" or stay in place when pressed down onto the lip of the internal (battery) compartment. I'm not sure if it is designed to "snap" in place as is or supposed to be taped down (which could be tricky threading the tape under the steering cables that pass directly over it). Me and the shop owner could not figure it out. I'm not criticizing by any means. I would love to own one of these boats, but would like some clarification on this before I do.

Thanks

The Hammer

Well... it would have been ideal to have it "snapped" down, like on the Geico or other boats, but the general design of the radio box did not make that really possible. The deck/radio-box is a single layed-up piece, so it wouldn't be able to release from the mold if it had retainers on it for a snap-on hatch. As such, the hatch is going to need to be taped down.

It's a bit of a pain... I hate having to tape things down, but it's doable.

One piece of advice: The motor was designed with extra length on the steering pivot pin; about 5mm extra. Once you get the motor adjusted where you are happy with it, place some shims/washers/spacers underneath the steering arm to raise it up. This will increase the clearance between the steering cables and the hatch cover, making it easier to tape.