Last year when I changed my oil for the first time I added it about a half of a Gatorade bottle at a time at arms length. It took about an hour. Today thanks to someone this forum for the idea, (sorry, I don’t remember who) I installed a 4” deck plate in my cockpit sole. That took about 45 minutes and I now have access directly above the filler cap of my W33A. I had been putting this job off but it was oil change time and when all was done, it was very easy and not at all worth the procrastination.
If you have this situation (30U with V-drive) and have been fighting this job, do this. It is a great idea.
Thank you to whoever it was on the forum who mentioned it.
On my w13,2qts, I can just get a qt plastic bottle above the rocker box. It turns out that closeable spout pourers are not available for the new oil bottle’s larger diameter neck. I keep an old narrow and slimmer bottle making the process two steps.
Dick Lane
NS26c Port Townsend
That was I, Paul. The first time I changed the oil I figured 45 minutes one time would save hours of future work. After 13 years, it adds up.
Joe Valinoti
S/V iL Gatto NS30U #221
Sea Harbour YC
Oriental, NC USA
Actually, you can just guesstimate the first hole. You get to adjust within 4 1/2”. I only cut a 4” hole with te hole saw so I could fine tune with a jigsaw.
Actually, you can just guesstimate the first hole. You get to adjust within 4 1/2”. I only cut a 4” hole with te hole saw so I could fine tune with a jigsaw.
If I could get a drill in easily I could have got an oil bottle in easily. Drilling from the top was fast and easy. I used a long bit that I could extend down to see what adjustment I needed.
I did have the same thought as you originally but it wasn’t practical.
I have that locker as well. When I got the boat it had a little access hatch to the dipstick that was only about ten inches square. I enlarged it to where I actually have pretty good engine access now.
The inside of my locker is rough though. It doesn’t look like quality shipyard work. It is roughly fitted painted plywood, probably a previous owner’s work. I’m sure yours looks better than this.
Hi Joe, so did I.
My shelf is where my inverter lives. I have easily removable tools and spares below so I can have access to the engine / dipstick. I would guess access isn’t an issue with the locker on the port side?
I can just get the qt bottle in sideways on my w21. I use a cheap dollar store screw on funnel extender. I have used a vinyl tune to a conventional funnel but it was a pain to clean and store.
