Scamp support column integrity

[herons]

I'd like to cut into the fiberglass cubby "column" and put in a small hatch/door about 7 x 10", just below the bottom cubby and above the wheel well. I am aware that this installation supports the roof and the shape of the 13' Scamp. Will I compromise the strength and function of the fiberglass column by cutting into it and adding a door (aka inspection hatch)?

[Jon in AZ]

Your description sounds like you have the big bed option, and you're talking about the tall, narrow storage unit between the door and the dinette. Am I close?

In the absence of any glassed in reinforcements in the area you want to cut (feel for bumps on the inside of the cabinet), and as long as you stay well away from the corners (that's where the strength is), I expect you'll be fine.

[gordon2]

Originally Posted by Jon in AZ

Your description sounds like ....

I'm glad I was not the only one who was not clear about this. Perhaps use some painters tape to outline the cut you want to make and then photograph it and post the photo.

Even if it does weaken it, chances are you can glass in some wood to make up the difference. Its easy to do if it is accessible and if it is where it wont be seen and wont be visible. I have glassed in a few wood blocks that look like crap because I was sloppy (using bondo and glass cloth), but it is strong and no one will see it.

[herons]

Originally Posted by Jon in AZ

Your description sounds like you have the big bed option, and you're talking about the tall, narrow storage unit between the door and the dinette. Am I close?

In the absence of any glassed in reinforcements in the area you want to cut (feel for bumps on the inside of the cabinet), and as long as you stay well away from the corners (that's where the strength is), I expect you'll be fine.

Yes, I have the big bed option and yes, it is the tall, narrow storage unit which is about 11" wide.


The hatch will be only 6 or 7" in width, leaving plenty of fiberglass on either side. Glassing in some wood behind the hatch frame sounds like a good idea.

[Jon in AZ]

I really don't think it's necessary to add additional support, since the cabinet has relatively small cutouts with quite a bit of fiberglass in between. Many folks have added a second cutout below the larger closet in the standard bed option without reinforcement or issue. If yours has shelves inside (the big closet doesn't) that's also adding rigidity.