Ocean Kayak Pro Hatch Information

Ocean Kayak Pro Hatch Information, by Tom Holtey Copyright TopKayaker GeoOdyssey 2019

 

The Pro Hatch cover was used on Ocean Kayak models; Scupper Pro, Caper, Drifter, Prowler 15, Cabo tandem and the Pro SI sit-in-side kayak.

Scupper Pro hatch covers break down into three types, generation 1 to 3. (Not including the original Scupper and Scupper Classic.) They all are the same oval shape, pear or egg shape. I have received some unverified reports of slightly different dimensions over the years.

 

Gen-1: The Scupper Pro kayaks of the 1990s, both two hatch and tank-well models, with or without a rudder option, were out fitted with a fairly deep 1st generation hatch cover. These 1st generation covers had double gaskets (both on the cover and the hatch rim), were black color, with fairly smooth plain surface. 1st generation covers are no longer made. Dimensions of the Pro Hatch Gen-1 are approximately 15 in. at the widest and 24 in. long.

Gen-2: The Scupper Pro kayaks of the 21st century, circa 2002 to 2008, one hatch tank-well models, have a very similar, but shallower hatch cover, also black color and plain smooth surface, but with a single gasket on the hatch rim, we call them 2nd generation. This style of cover is also discontinued. See photo of Pro Hatch Kit below. Dimensions of the Pro Hatch Kit Gen-2 are approximately 14.5 in. at the widest and 24.25 in. long.

Gen-3: The Scupper Pro Classic, introduced 2009, then discontinued the very next year, has a hatch cover that is still much the same shape, but with significant differences; very shallow and very flat, with a single gasket on the hatch rim. The Ocean Kayak logo is prominently embossed. We call it the 3rd generation.  The Pro Classic Hatch Kit 09 is still available, use the link to see it and the details.

Naturally you will want to replace a lost or damaged cover with one as near to the original as possible. A 2nd gen cover was an option for a 1st gen Pro, and might be made to work well with some effort. I would also say that one could use a Gen 1 hatch on a later version kayak too. These hatch covers may come up as a salvage parts here and there.  A 3rd gen cover is currently your only “retail” replacement option for any model year. It will be a difficult fit onto a 1st gen kayak, easier on a 2nd gen. The problem will be in making the gaskets seal properly. My related article; Maintenance Of Large Cargo Hatches will address this issue; however... It is up to you to implement your own approach to the gasket. A leaking hatch cover on rough seas is a safety problem!

If you have a damaged Gen 1 or Gen 2 hatch cover repair it. Take any and all steps necessary to repair it. Do Not throw away any hatch parts until you have successfully sorted out the problem. Fix cracks with WestSystems G-flex Epoxy.

If you have a Scupper Pro Classic, circa 2009, you can add a hatch (where one has not been before) or replace a lost or damaged hatch cover with the Gen 3 Pro Classic Hatch Kit 09.

Gaskets often need replacement. They will fail from age over time. Replace gaskets on older (pre 2001) Gen 1 hatches with a Type B Gasket. Replace gaskets on newer (post 2001) Gen 2 and 3 hatches with Type A Gasket.

Protect your hatch cover from loss! Inspect the Hatch Straps and replace as needed. Always be sure to secure the straps well before car topping.

If you have lost a Gen 1 or 2 hatch cover, or your hatch cover is beyond repair, it may be best to fabricate your own cover. Use this link for some basic info that may be applied: Making a Fiberglass Hatch Mold. The Gen-2 version was best used on Ocean Kayak models circa 2002 and newer. It was also a good option for any year Ocean Kayak that takes this large oval hatch, but only those kayaks that never had a hatch installed before. We have received mixed reports of successful use of the Gen 2 hatch on older model Scupper Pros, and other OK boats, circa 1990s.

The Gen-2 hatch kit shown above contained: 1 large oval hatch cover, 1 Trim-Lok gasket, 2 strap kits and the all needed screws and washers to complete a new hatch installation. Ocean Kayak part number was 07.3011.0000.

My advice is not to attempt a new installation, on an Ocean Kayak, made before 2009 that was intended to take the Pro Hatch Gen-1 or Gen-2, that has never had a hatch before . This means the vast majority of Ocean Kayak one-or-no-hatch Scupper Pro kayaks made during the 1990s right up to 2008. It is best to leave the kayak as is. A botched hatch install job using inappropriate parts will ruin your kayak.

Copyright TopKayaker GeoOdyssey 2019