epeek

Help,I just got ready to winterize the boat & I cant open the engine
hatch! Actuator just clicks. I cant see any way to get in there to
unbolt it. I tried taking the pins out of the back,but I can only move
it up about an inch. Anybody have this happen to them?
(32 Fever) Thanks, Rick

jryan26

Ive wondered the same thing. So the batteries are charged, and it just clicks?

epeek

Yea,full charge. It's trying to work but just wont lift it.
I even jumped the breaker because it keeps tripping it,
after toggling the switch up & down. I cant believe Fountain
didnt make a provision is case this happens.

US1 Fountain

Can you lift up at same time as operating the switch helping to take the load off the lift? Even with a full charge, my lift is slow.
I see on your other post that you have the side vents. That sounds like the most promising chance.

epeek

Tried it,no luck.Just clicks or makes a ratcheting sound.

88Fount33

Side vents with long extensions and ratchet/socket, then dedicate a set for this emergency, weld on the sockets and store in the boat for emergency purposes. I have the same "worry". They put my batteries under the hatch, and then a heavy duty dryer plug under the seat. I changed the plug to a forklift style and rigged up a set of jumper cables but would still be in the same state if the actuator failed. Sorry for your troubles, but at least you will not have to cut into your sun pad as other brands and models that do not have side hatches. I have been told horror stories such as this and still have not made up the socket/ratchet extension tools.

bryanspeedracer

Check you ground connections. Had the same problem and it was a bad ground.

88Fount33

The ratcheting sound is the sound of the clutch on the motor drive letting go. It makes this same sound when the hatch either fully opens or fully closes and you keep your finger on the switch just a moment too long. The fact that it is making this noise means that either the clutch has gone (too loose) or that there is binding due to wear, bend, or excessive friction in the ram.

epeek

Yea,same sound as when you hold the button when its open all
the way. I'm sure the units shot. Just was hopeing someone
knew a way to get at the bolt. It looks like my only shot is thru
the vents.

Innov500s

I always assumed I could pull my pins in the rear and get at the bolts that way, I guess I was wrong. Good luck and keep us posted