Bavaria Yacht Info
Member Forums => Modifications & Equipment => Topic started by: blue-max on September 15 2023, 17:06
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I'm not happy with the companionway from cockpit to saloon. Its very steep with 4 treads from top to saloon sole. Its also very heavy - made from thick solid hardwood planks - as it needs to be removed for front engine access. I was thinking to replace it with a lighter design at a better angle, perhaps using aluminium rectangular section with plywood treads and a handrail - possibly adapting a step ladder. Has anyone tried changing their companionway. Modern designs seem to use polished stainless steel tubes as framework for the treads but I prefer to go with aluminium.
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Sounds ugly! The solid wood companionway steps are a nice feature of these boats.
My preferred solution would've been to add a hinge at the top and gas lifters so it can be opened in place to access the engine bay. Not sure there is clearance for this past the table though - better check first.
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I am not sure your idea would work as the hinges would need to take much weight. Also the bottom end when swung up would need to be held by a fitting on the saloon head.I would be fearful about sudden descent whilst working underneath. There is also a problem with the steepness of the angle and insufficient steps. By lengthening the steps and reducing the angle with more steps it would feel safer and perhaps I could make the lower step to serve as a seat for the saloon table