[97 Z222]

I have noticed that the one electric ram that opens the engine cover/ sun deck, is pushing up the cover and putting alot of extra presure on the hinge. Because there is only one ram it goes up on an angle. On some of the newer models they changed the mounting location to the middle of the cover and shortend the ram, making it open straight and spreading the load on the hinge more evenly. I am considering to add a second electical ram on the other side of the cover, or, remove the electric ram and install two gas shock rams. The reason I am cosidering the gas shocks is because the battery is under the cover, and if I ever lost electrical power, I would have to roll the bench seat forward, crawl over the seat, under the cover and squeeze in the back to get at the battery. The other option if I want to keep the electric rams, is to intall an emergency batterry connection under the dash.
Has anyone made any of these changes, and how has it worked out?

[ShabahZ280]

My boat originally came with the electric hatch opener, but the previous owner removed it after it failed and put a set of gas shocks on the sides of the hatch. While I like the whole James Bond type hatch open/close, it didn't make a whole lot of sense since the battery shutoff switch was underneath there. I'm one of those people who turn the battery off every time, apparently so was the previous owner, and that's why the hatch lifter was removed. The holes for the bracket are still in the floor, and the wiring's in there somewhere. If you'd like I can take a couple pics of the way mine's set up when I go to the boat later this week. Check out the sticky "Mariah Parts List" for the model number and manufacturer of my gas shocks. That should help!

[97 Z222]

I did see you parts list thread. What a great resource. I need a small part from taylor for a window vent. Didn't know they were available until I saw you thread. Thanks.
I've pulled the ram pin out on my ram, because i've removed the battery for the winter. That's what got me thinking about the gas shocks. If I ever had an engine fire or electrical fire, I'd be screwed. You want into that area asap if you have a fire. No one likes to think of these things happening, but they can.
If you remember when your at your boat, I would be interested to see your hatch set up.