zz28zz

After seeing the recent discussion abt eng hatch actuators, I remembered that I have a "one of these days" project to replace one of the 2 hatch actuator attachment bolts with a special pin (same dia as bolt) that has a sturdy metal ring attached. When the metal ring is pulled. the pin unlatches and pulls out.

The idea is to have a way to release the hatch if actuator fails. Remove a side vent and grab the metal ring with a special pole/hook gizmo I would build-up.

Anyone know what these special pins are called and where to get them?

bajaman

Dead batteries engine hatch - Offshoreonly.com

I'd done this to one of my boats years ago...and had posted about it in this thread.

I used a spring-detent pin and a piece of .090 thick Weedeater line as the pull cord.

zz28zz

The spring detent pin is very close to what I was looking for.
The one I'm thinking about has a center button that releases the balls but instead of pushing the button, I want one that you pull. Metal grab ring is attached to center button and when pulled would release the balls and slide out in one operation. The plain type that's uses springs to hold the balls in position would also work and will be my backup.

bajaman

Yeah...the center push to release the ball type I've seen at places Carr-Lane or Grainger, etc. Finding one that releases by pulling the ring...hmmmm.
Double-Acting Ball Lock Pins | Carr Lane
Marine Ball Lock Pins | Carr Lane

zz28zz

That's it!!!

Double-Acting Ball Lock Pins (Ring Handle)

Thank you Bajaman.. I really appreciate you spending the time to source that.

I knew a guy with an old Cigarette flat top who's lift actuator failed. It wasn't pretty. He wound up having to cut a large hole under the bench seat into the bilge..

Thx again. Cheers

Tractionless

Got mine at Mcmaster CArr. Not inexpensive for SS/Alum