Reply To: Cabin access

Hi, I've taken out the central partition on Gee Bee HT IVa. I wish I had done it many years ago. Other than a new engine, probably the best thing ever done! The aft space is so much more usable as one cabin. I've cruised with kids – works fine. Also makes it easier to get things – can go down either hatch. The wood partition removed weighed a ton and was solid marine ply. Heavily glassed in top bottom and forward and aft too. I find it hard to see how you could remove the partition without leaving an edge – without a full angle grind and many more hours work. So much dust anyway – be warned. I left and inch across the top and half an inch against forward bulkhead. I left a 6inch lip on the transom bulhead – useful for attaching things. I also have a full canopy: absolutely essential in this country. The full canopy however costs an absolute fortune – which is why mine is such a wreck, being patched year on year. If you are going to get one made, consult with real users first! I've yet to see a solution of preventing leaks via the mast.