In an old J30 Journal that happened to be on the boat when I purchased it, I noticed an article that showed how to cut the companionway steps into two pieces. The idea was to allow the front stairs portion to be easily lifted away to give easy access to the front portion of the engine - to check the belts, oil levels, impeller belt etc., without removing the entire companionway assembly. The back half could then be removed separately when access to other parts of the engine is required.
Does anyone have any experience with this modification, and any comments on the advisability of doing this? It seems like a good idea, but it is a drastic step that could affect the strength of the entire unit, unless it is done right.
