This model is based on detailed Elco drawings for all Elco 80' boats and is specific to PT's 103 - 129 which opened towards the mast. Hatches on PT's 130 on opened to the aft. The hatch and hinge bottoms are curved to match the roof camber for side opening.
All outside surfaces are scale except for minimal thickening of the hinge bases and handles to meet printing minimums. The sprue cage is not attached to the hatch so no trimming will be needed. Be careful with the hinges and handles, they are thin and fragile.
Preparation
The first step is to clean all parts thoroughly. Handle very carefully as the plastic is brittle. Please see the guide and links here:
http://www.pt103.com/3D_Printed_PT_Boat_Parts.html. For best painting results be sure to follow cleaning with a UV cure from a lamp with the correct output, or the sun.
Check that the hatch is slightly loose in the sprue cage and not "glued" in by leftover support wax used in the printing process. If you used an ultrasonic cleaner as recommended this should not be a problem.
Cut the sprue on either side of the handles at the cut points indicated in the image above (with the Shapeways preview renders). Remove the cut piece carefully by sliding it out enough to clear the edge of the hatch top and lift off. Carefully slide the hatch out of the remaining sprue, cut the sprue at either side of the hinges if needed.
Location
See the image above that is included with the Shapeways preview renders. When attaching to your model, gluing the hinge bases also will help keep them from breaking.
For further details, please see this page:
http://www.pt103.com/PT_Boat_Components_Day_Room_Cabin_Trunk.html.