hull breather location

I may have plugged one of my hull vents. Where are they located? How are they constructed? My boat is a 1982. I appreciate your help. Thanks,

On an 18 they are underneath the front crossbar, in the hull saddle.

From experience I can tell you not to plug any vent breather holes. My 18 is now totally air tight. A big PITA. I will be redrilling my vent holes this fall once it comes off the beach. For now I keep the drain plugs loose.

_________________
1989 Hobie 18 Worlds Boat, Magnum Wings & Spinnaker
1987 Hobie Holder 20 #273

dale.vanlopik"at"att"dot"net

How can I tell if a breather hole is plugged? And what are the consequences of a plugged hole?

As the hull heats up in the sun the air in the hulls expand, putting pressure on the hulls. When you put the boat in the water the air contracts because the water is colder thus creating a vacuum. This action can damage the hulls.

If the drain plugs let a woosh of air in or out (or the 6" ports) your vent hole is plugged and your boat is airtight.

On a Hobie 18 take the front crossbar off the boat, take a piece of cut hanger wire and push it through the vent hole in the saddle. Reach in the 6" port and make sure you can feel the wire.

_________________
1989 Hobie 18 Worlds Boat, Magnum Wings & Spinnaker
1987 Hobie Holder 20 #273

dale.vanlopik"at"att"dot"net