Todd, I installed new hatch boards on my M15 and went with three. That's the set up now used by the factory. I think it's the same with the M17. Regards, Randy & Greta Watkins

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htmills@bright.net 02/13/02 10:03PM >>> Thanks for the link, Russ.....I wasn't familiar with that windvane. On my old computer I didn't see anything about a tiller tamer but that wouldn't be the first time. I'll check the site out tomorrow on the work 'puter.

Regarding hatchboards. I was at a lumberyard this afternoon getting some wood for the self-steering oar and also bought some plywood for new hatchboards. My present hatchboards are painted on the outside because, I'm told, the veneer was damaged at some point in its life. They measure 3/8" thick and look like teak? and are in two pieces. The new plywood I bought is ash, much lighter. (thought I'd try something different; not sure how I'll like it) I carelessly assumed they were only 1/4" and that's what I bought, except that it only measures in at 3/16". This happy little accident of fate means that I can take two thicknesses and laminate them together with the best face on BOTH sides out. (actually, both faces were pretty good, but one is better). I plan to seal them with epoxy and then coat that with varnish. What I'm wondering is this: should I repeat the arrangement with two hatchboards or....should I go with three and have the third, bottom one with some holders on it for gps, radio, etc? I would like a board with holders, but maybe that should be a separate piece altogether that I'd take out to button up? One drawback would be that a lower hatchboard would make it harder for my crewmembers and me, to a much lesser extent, to come and go from the cabin. Any thoughts? Thanks, Tod _______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats