RAN Sailingvideo

Shaping Our 52ft Yacht From Scratch - The Engine Hatch Challenge - Ep. 461 RAN Sailing

October 17, 2025 · 21 min · 94K views · Skåne

What this video covers

Johan constructs a watertight engine hatch for a 52-foot yacht by creating a dual-seal system integrated into the cockpit sole.2:07 He fabricates a perimeter lip using PET foam strips, which he glues into the cockpit sole and the hatch underside to house EPDM rubber seals.1:05 To ensure structural rigidity for the wide hatch, he laminates the assembly using vacuum bagging, employing release film and breather cloth to eliminate air bubbles and ensure the glass conforms to the grooves.7:57 Johan uses a router to probe the hatch’s perimeter and cut the seal groove, achieving alignment with the sole by offsetting the router bit 15 millimeters from a traced pencil line.9:30 He plans to install mechanical stops on the hatch to prevent over-compression of the seals and to ensure the hatch sits flush with the surrounding cockpit sole.16:10 The final assembly provides a stiff, reinforced cover for the engine compartment, designed to prevent water ingress.18:34

Watch on YouTube

More from RAN Sailing

There's No Manual For This! Building Our Own 52ft Sailboat - Ep. 506 Ran SailingOct 2026Carbon Pillars & No Dorade Boxes! - Building Our 52ft Sailboat - Ep. 505 Ran SailingOct 2026Will the Sanding EVER End? Building Our Dreamboat - Ep. 503 Ran SailingSep 2026Something's Not Right Here! Building Our 52ft Sailboat - Ep. 502Sep 2026

From RAN Sailing — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.

Report an issue