Catalina 310 Forward Bulkhead Deflection

pchazel · #1 (**permalink**) 02-13-2008

When I tuned the rigging last year (Loos gauge) I noticed that the forward bulkhead just aft the V-berth had a deflection about 1/2". The door would still close but the door jam had a noticeable bulge. Our Catalina 310 is a 2000 model, do the newer models have any kind of door jam stiffener or support?

duffer1960 · #2 (**permalink**) 02-15-2008

It sounds like you may have a problem with the bulkhead. I would check all of the mounting and tabbing points and check for anything loose.

BlandingFarm · #3 (**permalink**) 03-18-2008

This was a warranty issue on the earlier boats. Contact you local Catalina dealer and he can provide instructions for fix

pchazel · #4 (**permalink**) 04-21-2008

Thanks BlandingFarm for the info. Unfortunately, our local dealer has ceased association with Catalina for several reasons. His Catalina line is in the process of being transferred to another unknown dealer at this time. I will check as soon as I can. Do you have a farm?

pchazel · #5 (**permalink**) 06-16-2008

After a couple of phone calls to Catalina, I received a 1/2" shim to place under the compression post in our Cat 310 #12. The post is 1/2" too short and when we tightened the backstay, the downward force was shared by the bulkhead aft of the V-berth.
I made up a blocking arrangement which included a 12 ton bottle jack and over a several hour period I gently increased upward pressure just forward of the compression post. When I had the 1/2" gap under the lower plate I slipped in the shim, lined up the screw holes and gradually let off the pressure. I shot a little 3M 5200 in the screw holes and installed new screws (1/2" longer than the original).
Sorry to say, I did not take pictures. I did not want my wife to see a 12 ton jack in the V-berth so no pics and she was not allowed on board until all was finished.
I can give more detailed instructions and sketch a diagram for those that are interested.