in this era. The plate itself is heavy as hell, cast of bronze, and teak decking is applied and screwed from below(the cover has the holes drilled for the teak). The outside ring is mounted to the sole. The plate is fastened down with large screws designed to close with a half turn.

It's mounted over the coupling and stuffing box on my boat. I've spent hours and hours inside there. It's not bad access. The opening is about waist high when I'm standing in there. Throw a cushion down first, put your feet on each side of the engine and take a seat.

It gives me access to the back of the engine and transmission plus you work on the steering gear as well. It's a little tight but I don't know what I'd do without it.