C28 Engine Lift Stuck

[steven_ickman]

Hi, I have a 1 month old 2015 C28 and last weekend I opened the engine hatch to inspect the engine and while the hatch raised just fine I couldn't at first get it to go down. Was a bit panicked at first but then thought to start the engine and once I did it lowered just fine.

I'm assuming the issue was the batteries didn't have enough juice to lower the hatch but the thing is I was on shore power. Just want to make sure there's not something wrong with my battery charging circuit or could it be possible that I have a switch in the wrong position? It seems to be working fine off battery right now.

-steve

 

[walldog]

Probably the same lift mechanism as the 31. I suggest do not open to full extent as it has tendency to hang up. I have been told to remove some fluid from system, but find that the best way is to just not open fully. If you do and it hangs up again, move the trim tabs to change fluid pressure in system and it may come down then.

 

[steven_ickman]

I bet you're right. It was the first (and only) time I've opened it all the way. I was kind of freaked out. Was at port and it was starting to rain. Just glad it came down when I started the engine. I wasn't sure what I was going to do to get it closed.

-steve

 

[Automaticman865]

I have the same with my cutwater. The tabs need to be up, as its allows more fluid for the hatch. If the tabs are down the hatch struggles to fully open.

Stuart

 

[Andrew Custis]

Hello Steve,

First of all, welcome to the family of Ranger and Cutwater. There are a few things that will really help and a couple of things that should be checked.

1. As Herb said, it is advised not to open the engine hatch to its max opening position. I believe this does affect something in the pump (could be air) because releasing a little fluid from the fitting at the bottom of the cylinder fixes it.

2. Checking the fluid level in the pump with the hatch closed and trim tabs raised all the way up, it is advised that fluid should be towards the top of the fluid level range indicator on the front of the pump itself.

3. If this happens again, please note the battery voltage on the house bank before starting the engine so we can verify that battery voltage or something else isn't going on.

For quick answers, please email me direct and I will be happy to assist. andrewcustis@rangertugs.com

Take care,

Andrew Custis

 

[steven_ickman]

Thanks Andrew... I just want to say how awesome you guys are. I was emailing with my salesman this morning (Matt @ Bellingham Yachts) and he was saying someone from the factory told him I had an issue with my engine hatch and then you and others in the community reply with great advice. It's awesome knowing that there's such an amazing support chain in place that extends from the factory, to sales, and to the community of owners. I feel happier about my decision to buy a cutwater every day 🙂

-steve