question for handy billy builders

[eastern270]

It appears to me in almost all pictures of the handy billy 21 that when the motor is in the tilted up position that the engine hatch must be opened to avoid the engine crashing through it. Is this the case or are they opened just to show off the motor well. If this is the case then how much higher would you need to make the engine cover to avoid hitting it. I ask because I think it is nice to be able to lift the engine out of the water when not in use to avoid growing a beard on the submerged lower unit section. I also think that raising the engine hatch much higher may somewhat ruin the look or proportion of the the boat. Also, the plans mention connecting a tube to the exhaust and routing out the transom to avoid excessive fume build up and causing engine problems at idle. Did anyone do this or have idling problems from not doing it.
Thanks

[Rick Starr]

Even the smallest powerhead in 25 hp will require the hatch raised to raise the motor. Doug Hylan's big sister Tophat is designed to allow the 50hp motor to be raised under the closed hatch, and even in this much larger boat (both physically and proportionally) it looks a bit silly to my eye. Note: "crashing" as you say is not possible since no short shaft 25 that I know of offers power tilt.

I have had no problem with fumes choking the motor at idle. I made provisions for the hose and thru-hull, but couldn't get the hose to adhere to the port well (I didn't try too hard) and have experienced no ill effects since it came undone the last time.

[eastern270]

thanks for the reply and your boat looks great. I wish I could get your video to work for me.