IIRC, the opening is 14x15. The hardware consists of two hinges outboard,
two heavy backing plates inboard to support the corners. We just drilled a
one-inch finger hole for lifting.
> Other question, what is in the vberth on the starb. side, you mention foam.
> How much room is in there and what type of foam are you speaking about.
> The only foam I see in my p19 is what appears to be white sheet type
> styrofoam boards about 1 inch thick and 10 inches wide, stuffed haphazardly
> into the bow berth compartment, is this normal? Is this what is in the
> port side or is that more of a spray in type foam? (you mentioned shaving
> it...)
In the bow is flotation foam installed by the factory. It takes up the
forward 4 feet (or so) under the v-berth. The space between the foam and
the porta-potti was open, thus the desire for better access. The foam is
one big block, either poured into the hull or a dedicated mold, but it
fits perfectly.
> Also, what is such a concern about the sawed out piece not falling in,
> would it bee too fragile to chip for cosmetic reasons, or would it be too
> hard to retrieve through the newly made hole? what is the reason?
Just like cutting any unsupported material, the weight of the cut-off as
you finish the cut will tend to break and/or peel the last bit resulting
in a rough edge.
-- Eric L. Pederson P-19 #970, Necessity Bloomington, MN