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What is an acceptable method,when winterizing the boat and disconnecting the batteries,to lower the engine hatch and having it accessable in the spring without hiring three men and a small boy to raise the hatch manually?(this could also be the case if for some unknown reason all batteries where dead at the dock)

I had the same thought my first year with the 258 but I was able to manually open it if my back was willing.

My other idea was to open the hatch with the batteries, unplug batteries(after topped off from charger), then connect a wire to the boat side battery terminals being careful to keep them separated and taped so they don't touch. Connect that wire to an external battery and then close the hatch with that external battery power. Leave the wire there for spring and reverse the process. You don't need a huge wire but enough for the power lift motor.

The way to open the hatch with dead batteries is to turn the charger on. It should have enough juice to open the hatch.

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--2002 3880 Regal Flybridge | Twin Merc 8.1HO **Seven**
--2003 AB 13 VST Console Inflatable | Tohatsu 40hp TLDI **Phish'n ski**
--310 Mercury Inflatable | 1982 9.9 Johnson

babbot1..thanks for your suggestion. I did come up with a "Rube Goldberg" solution myself, somewhat similar to your suggestion. I tapped into the two wires going to the hatch motor, then to a DPDTS (double pole, double throw switch 12V dc $10.00) and then connected a cigarette lighter plug so that it can be plugged into my 12V booster gel pack lighter receptacle. I lowered the hatch while leaving the control switch exposed for next springs opening. Worked well but will be coming up with a more acceptable and permanent solution next spring. I don't need the aggravation each fall!