382 Dash Latch
 

I'm looking at 2 different layouts for the dash. Both, unfortuantely, would result in a hole being cut near the top of the panel that would likely interfere with the crossbar that snaps into the latch mounted to the fiberglass that holds the dash down. (Sorry for the run on sentence. :eek: )

Has anyone come up with any modifications that would give back some dash real estate and still be nice and functional?

I thought about bungee cords for 1/2 a second I'm somewaht ashamed to admit, but discarded that idea. :rolleyes:

Does anyone know if the new boats have anything different?

Thanks!
Garrett

There are various versions of he latches that are used to hold the breaker panel door, closet door, and cabinets shut. Check out SouthCo Latches or search in McMaster.com. (Or use dzus fasteners!!)

Ah, dzus fastners. I had bunch of those on the car I used to race. Too easy to open though for those who might want to pull some shenanigans on the boat. I'll check out the other options though at McMaster. I also realized I have a Grainger catalog that might have something.

G.

Why not just drill a countersunk hole in each upper corner and screw it into the fiberglaas with screws that match the ones for the hinges?

Gee, Robert, that's using way to much common sense and is not near complicated enough. :D

Seriously, I think this might be the ticket. I could use machine screws with nylock nuts. It wouldn't be quite as convenient to open up, but, it would make it hard for someone to open it with a screwdriver w/o getting in the bottom.

I could put a piece of flat aluminun to behind the fiberglass to spread the load and prevent the glass spider web cracking.

Thanks!

...or install aircraft style nutplates.