Water in the cavity of the swim platform on a 228?

[luckydude]

As you may know, I have a 2020 228 with the modern swim platform. That platform is supported by a sort of hollow "box" which has an opening covered by a hatch. I must have not tightened that hatch or something because there is water in there. Doesn't seem to have a drain, if there is one, I haven't found it.

Anyone encountered this and know what to do? I'm gonna shop vac the water out there as a last resort.

 

[glacierbaze]

Look at the lowest point on the bottom of the box, and see if there is a flush mounted plug, which accepts an Allen wrench.

 

[PointedRose]

This product is for fuel, but would also work for this purpose. It has a brass ball value so you just shake the valve a bit under the fuel/water until you get siphon flow and it’ll empty gallons in a few minutes.

Siphon - The Original Safety Siphon - 6' High Grade Hose, 3/8" Valve https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N5MTGQ...abc_M1JVNX5EDDZFAB1XYQYA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

 

[bazzturd]

That's the bracket. It has a drain on the bottom.

 

[wrxhoon]

Hi Lucky,
My boat (2013)has the same bracket as yours. She has a plastic nut that screws underneath. Use a 1" socket and be careful not to round the plastic nut. If you round it don't be tempted to replace with anything other than plastic or aluminum. I intend to change mine to aluminum when I get around to it.
You will find the water gets in from the flange on the top, do not overtighten it . I use some rubber grease on mine and she seals well.

 

[luckydude]

Thanks all, seems like I should have looked harder. It's early and dark here but I'll get out there and see later.

 

[glacierbaze]

Use a 6 point socket, not a 12, and not a wrench on the plastic nut.

 

[JimJoe]

I have a problem with rainwater filling my gill plate, 228 seafarer. Any ideas on a better way to seal the access cover?

 

[Halfhitch]

I have a problem with rainwater filling my gill plate, 228 seafarer. Any ideas on a better way to seal the access cover?

I don't know what type of hatch cover you have now but if the surface is flat then an Armstrong hatch plate will seal water tight

 

[wlewis]

My 225 has an Armstrong bracket/platform with the same plastic plug on underside. First time I removed it with a wrench, I inadvertently rounded it to where I needed pliers to fully remove it. I replaced it with a generic PVC threaded plug from a hardware store. Though it seems to fit properly and tightens, it still leaks slightly, even with thread sealing tape.

 

[JimJoe]

I don't know what type of hatch cover you have now but if the surface is flat then an Armstrong hatch plate will seal water tight

It is a standard comes with the boat 6 inch round cover. O ring seal, plastic inserts in holes that should provide sealing. I'll look into an Armstong plate. Thanks.

 

[ROBERTH]

I replaced my round hatch plates with the screw in type from West Marine a couple years ago and have never leaked a drop since. I did have to open up the hole slightly, but that was easy enough. Before this, I had a few gallons get in after every offshore trip. Now I remove the drain plugs on both sides of my sailfish and it has remained bone dry.