center bench modification...

[chrispbrown27]

I am thinking of modifying, not removing the center bench seat. What I am thinking of doing is cutting the bench in half, cutting the side pieces off, and folding the top down to cover the section that is now exposed. Basically leaving two separate seats, one on each side. I am thinking of, before I do the first cut, running either a piece of flat bar or some sort of thicker aluminum strap across the top of what will be left to anchor it in place to maintain the structural integrity of the boat. The straps or flat bar will be ran down to the nearest rib and attached there, either by riveting or welding. The idea is to open up a center walkway but leave seats in the center for passengers and also put hatches in the new seats for the batteries to go. Do you guys think that the straps/flat bar will add enough support to maintain the integrity of the hull?
Chris

 

[chrispbrown27]

No one has any suggestions on this?
Chris

 

[dejamat]

I thought about doing the same thing but changed my mind. (structure thing). Instead, I just decked from the center seat to the bow and left the rest of the boat open. I would like to think it would be ok (structure wise) to do what you would like to do so long as you keep the remaining parts of the seats strongly attached. Good luck, Keep us informed on your final outcome and how well it worked. Dave

 

[shawnfish]

what make/size boat? if its solid already and none of the rivets leak even with the whole bench removed it should be fine like that, you will hear different opinions. if its a smaller boat with a small ( under 30hp) OB i would second my first opinion. if ur not out jumpin waves and beating the boat it will stay solid, that being said after you make ur cuts take it out and make some sharp turns with some speed and watch to see if its flexin and if so put some supports on and if not leave it or put em in if you just want the peace of mind

 

[chrispbrown27]

It is a 1993 1648 G3 Dakota. The boat is solid without any leaks, despite the fact that the previous owner beat the heck out of it during the time he used it for duck hunting. I will get some better pictures of it tomorrow.
The idea I have in my head is to use the open space created by the seat frames for battery storage to offset some of the weight when I am fishing alone and get it out of my way. On top would be some sort of hatch for access and a seat mount of some sort.






Obviously these are in reverse of what I intended....mental note for the next time I do this.

 

[chrispbrown27]

One more thing I am kicking around is putting a livewell in the rear opposite the outboard operators seat. I want a rather big livewell since I love to run jugs and trotlines for flatheads and blues. If I can get it built the way I have it in my head it will also serve as a dry storage/gun locker during duck season. This picture will also give you an idea of what the layout will look like if everything works out like I want it to. Take notice of the detail on the trolling motor....as I said I was bored today.