2026 C248 helm hatches

[TomAtWrightsville]

Getting acclimated with our new C248 and just realized the roof rack is in the way of opening the hatches more than a few inches. Normal, or bad install?

 

[S. Todd]

For some unknown reason Ranger Tug installs hatches on the cockpit overhang of the R29 and they also do not open much because of the roof rack. Really no reason to waste the money and weight to install hatches over the cockpit, especially when you cannot open them much and the roof rack needs to be removed to replace them when they fail (Jim Black hatches of that size have a tendency to crack in the corners and need replacement).

 

[TomAtWrightsville]

Thx. After further examination today I noticed set screws that once loosened, I hope, will allow me to slide the cross members forward just enough to fully open the hatches. Will wonders never cease?

 

[R23 Kingfisher]

Yes those SS tube racks are adjustable by loosening the allen set screws and flathead screws on the SS 90s. I recently installed a large solar panel on mine and although it cuts down a bit on light coming in I like that I can open the roof hatches a bit to allow ventilation without rain entering the cabin. There are trade-offs to almost anything you do to a boat.

 

[FlyboyJ78]

My 25’ C248 came that way as well. I just took an Allen wrench and loosened the set screws, slid the bar out of the way and retightened it all up. I don’t carry anything on the roof as of now so it works out. Just be careful with the set screws. They are small and I lost one over the side of the boat. Got a replacement and all is good now.