: I used hardware-store foam weatherstripping (3/8" wide x 3/16"
: thick) for my hatch gaskets, and while they do an excellent job of keeping
: the hatches 100% dry, the hatch covers stick to them. I used the
: knob-and-drawbar hatch closure, which provides excellent clamping force. I
: try to remember to loosen the knobs a bit when storing the kayak, but
: sometimes forget. I filled the weave of the cloth under the hatch cover so
: that there's a nice, smooth surface to seal on, but didn't coat it with
: polyurethane like I did on the exterior. The gaskets are pretty squishy
: and kind of tacky, and after being clamped, they don't want to let go of
: the hatch cover. I have to loosen the knob, then try to pry up on the edge
: of the hatch or torque on the knob to get the lid free.

: This has been a bit of a nuisance and an embarassment as well -- people at
: the 2 symposia I've been to this summer have asked "how do the
: hatches work?" and I have to spend a minute monkeying with them to
: get them to open.

: Do I need a different gasket material, or some kind of release coating? Last
: resort would be a little grab loop on the perimeter of the hatch to lift
: up on.

: Thanx,

: Dean

I would try a bit of normal baby powder. I find that my hatches stick a tiny bit when some water gets under the seal slightly and helps to create a slight vacuum seal with the rising and setting of temperature over the period of a day.

Pete czerpak albany, ny