Trapped in Bilge

[clas102]

OK. The term idiot comes to mind. I own the RELIEF, a two-year old R-29. I was trying to measure the bolts from the inside that hold the transom zinc so that I could drill the holes in the zinc slab and have my diver install it. I raised the hatch on the hydraulic rod and slithered below. I was all the way down in the bilge, below the cockpit floor, when it got DARK. The hatch had come down. I will spare you the saga of finally getting help so that I could unscrew myself from the fairly uncomfortable surroundings of the engine compartment. Suffice to say that I was rescued. I have resolved never to go completely below without tying the hatch open. Yes, I tried the hydraulic after my rescue and, indeed, after a few minutes in the up position it started to sag off. Must have been what happened to me. I am pleased to be above decks again. But I would caution that the hydraulic lift may not hold. Also, I still need the measurements for the transom zinc and left a call at the company last week which wasn't returned. Happy tugging. I am looking forward to Roche Harbor in September. george k.

 

[Irish Mist]

You can just push the hatch up without activating the ram if that happens again . At least my 2011 is like that .. It allows access if there is a power failure

 

[clas102]

Yep. I know it will raise and lower manually. Unfortunately, all I had was my toes at the opening end of the hatch and, while I could bump it up, I lacked the leverage to really lift it. And, of course, I couldn't turn around. Generally, a bad day at black rock. gk The RELIEF

 

[Gin]

So, is it wrong to say to George K of generally-having-a-bad-day-at-black-rock, that this gave me my heartiest laugh of the day? Yes, probably wrong to say that.

Gini

 

[clas102]

I'm so glad to brighten everyone's day. Those with whom I have shared my Memorial Day travails-of-the-bilge (other than TugNuts) have had much the same reaction--hearty laughter. So consider my tale a tonic, an elixir, to enhance the wellbeing of all. As my boat's name suggests, I am here to bring RELIEF. gk

 

[Irish Mist]

Oh now I get it...Well is something fun to talk about now 🙂

 

[BaseCampAnne]

A hearty laugh indeed, but I admit I reread it several times wondering what I might do if in that situation 😱

On the 3rd reading I finally figured out I could never GET in the position you describe; you certainly got me wondering till I slowed down and thought again about how upside down you were :!: