CENTER WINDOW LOCKING SYSTEM

patrick and linda · Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2009 4:25 pm Post subject: CENTER WINDOW LOCKING SYSTEM

i have had a continuing problem with my center window's locking system. it's the standard shaft that extends and then a screw type device tightens and thus holds the window open. the problem is during a slight chop the screw system will not hold the window open and it will slowly close. doesn't matter how hard i crank the screw thingy, just doesn't hold. i've thought about drilling a hole in the metal shaft and inserting a pin when the window is in the open position but probably think one of you guys have experienced this and have came up with something better.
so would be interested in hearing solutions.
pat

Cutty Sark · Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2009 4:29 pm Post subject:

Mine did the same thing, I don't think they are made to hold it open while pounding through the chop. I always just cracked a side window instead if it was rough.

Sark

Papillon · Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2009 4:31 pm Post subject:

Pat...I did the pin thingy...and it works great. So if you want something prettier..then put a red bow on the pin... Wink

patrick and linda · Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2009 4:54 pm Post subject:

hey mike and sark,
not sure about the red ribbon, probably be more inclined to hang a cold dos equis. so, didn't know if there was something easier than drilling a hole, but if that's what it takes. tired of that window closing, during the hot season need the window open to cool the interior.
thanks
pat

Chester · Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2009 5:22 pm Post subject:

I'd consider some sort of auxillary strut or such to take the stresses imposed by the choppy water off of the brackets that support the factory strut.
Click link for further discussion. http://www.c-brats.com/viewtopic.php?t=11978&highlight=broken+frame

patrick and linda · Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2009 5:39 pm Post subject:

milehog,
interesting name!
thanks for the referral, somehow missed that string of posts.
pat

Chester · Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2009 6:01 pm Post subject:

bmacpiper · Posted: Sun Nov 29, 2009 7:48 pm Post subject:

I could swear that I've seen some newer Dorys with the black nylon style adjuster (similar to the ones on the forward hatch) instead of the stainless arm with a butterfly tightener.

In addition to the problems mentioned above, the butterfly, when tight, is turned so it tears the rubber window seal when the window bangs shut. And it's damn near impossible to tighten sufficiently in any conditions. Anyone out there have a different one, or am I making things up?

bmc

Casey · Posted: Mon Nov 30, 2009 7:34 am Post subject:

Like some other Brat's I removed the offending support arm and drilled it to hold a pin - in fact, I drilled several holes (one inch apart)so the window can be held open in various amounts. When not in use the pin is clipped to the bracket hinge so it doesn't get lost.

I haven't found that the stresses on the hinge (wave chop, etc) were enough to hurt the hinge - but it was just enough to cause the original friction fitting to come loose letting the window constantly slide closed.

It was a perfect, easy fix. The only challenge was holding the round stock (window arm) in position on the drill press and getting the holes properly positioned. ...oh yea, then I also learned how Hard stainless steel is! (Use a good drill bit and go slowly.).

Best,
Casey