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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Kinja" data-source="post: 460589" data-attributes="member: 23863">That is a good point about trialing with loose plywood before going too far in changing the structure.  I will do that, but first I need to replace the transom wood and then hang my old motor on there to get close to the loaded weight with the new Merc 20.  I can do all of that without much fuss, so good idea!I do not plan to add a drain, instead I will rely on a bilge pump or two and manual bailing should the need arise.  The boat will be under cover when out of the water so it shouldn't get excess water in it. If I do end up removing the benches I am thinking just like you suggested that the framing should make up for the stiffening of the hull. I have the gas tank forward just to even out the weight.  During the stability trial mentioned above I will determine if the tank should be in the stern instead.  If so, I will just turn that forward area into another storage hatch.Regarding the boarding ladder, I was thinking of going with one of the temporary/removable ones and just stowing it below when not needed.Thanks for the questions and ideas!</blockquote>