Replace repair cockpit sole in cd 33

[Paul D.]

Did your surveyor tell you this? If not I would get one or go over it yourself with a moisture meter and plastic hammer. I don’t think I would put a hatch there for these reasons

• -It is right where you stand to helm
  -There is not much room behind the Binnacle
  -There is nothing important in that space below that the access would help much.

I would attempt the repair from outside. Now if the area was forward of the Binnacle I might say cockpit hatch time!

[Frenchy]

Hi John, - I don't know if there is a clear answer to your question. Some 33 owners have done this and are satisfied.
I replaced the entire cockpit sole years ago and thought about a hatch and rejected the idea. My reasoning was it would
weaken the floor, threaten watertight integrity and it wasn't necessary.
By cutting away a few inches of the bulkhead opening separating the port cockpit locker and the engine compartment, I'm
able to get in there more easily. I also removed the "lip" on the battery shelf. It's very uncomfortable, granted-
but I'm free to do anything needed down there.
When I did the sole, I replaced the balsa with corecell except under the pedestal, where I put an 12" x 12" square of
solid fiberglass plate. Originally, there was a square of plywood under that spot, surrounded by the balsa.
It might be a good idea to drill a few holes up forward to ascertain there is no rot up there. It would be a
shame to replace the aft section and find out later that the whole sole was compromised.
Anyway, good luck with your project. - Jean

[sachemgfp]

WE had a CD 31 and replaced the cockpit sole, the balsa cor was the problem. At the time Cape Dory was still in business and was very helpful in providing non skid, and paint . It was a lengthy job but it never had a problem after wards.. Had the boat for 16 years after.

George