I am trying to work out a position for an autopilot linear drive attached to the steering quadrant. On the ort side a large plastic vent pipe - about 75 mm diameter runs from the top of the transom to about 20 cm above the bilge. There is also another pipe similar size on the port side but does mot descend to the bilge. I'd like to take the long one out as it will be in the way. Any consequences if I do this?
Less ventilation!
Which has minor consequences, such as more mould growing in the boat, but nothing more than that. We had those two on the 40 Ocean. In the deep of winter I would tape them both up. Even with the forced air diesel heater sucking its combustion air from this area, there was no issue - the companionway hatch was drafty enough to let new air in! :)
We ran a dehumidifier in the cabin to control the humidity though.
Thanks. I don't have a problem with internal dampness so I block off 1 of the vents. Just got to work out how to fit the autopilot drive.