Adding Bench to Inflatable

[mmgarrett]

I have a 1986 Achilles 14' SIB. I am looking at installing a rear bench. The bench will most likely be a 1"X12" sealed with rubberized paint. The problem I'm having is with the install. I went to the local shop and they sold me a pair of glue on "ribs" to hold the wood bench. Has anyone ever used these "ribs" for the bench? I have attached pics so you can see what I have to work with. The last two are the "ribs". Is there a better way? Any help or tips would be great.
Thanks,
Matt

 

[riverandocean]

Re: Adding Bench to Inflatable

It looks like you have the standard Achilles bench attachments. The challenge of course is can you find the extruded aluminum channel that Achilles uses to attach the wooden seat to the bolt rope. I was looking for it when I was planning to buy an SG. I could not get it, and nor could the dealer.

I would definitely want to figure out how to attach the seat to the bolt rope before I glue on the patch. And I would want to use the two part hypalon adhesive with strict humidity control before I glue. Temp and humidity greatly affect the glue strength.

I ended up getting a great deal on a Grand Raid by Zodiac, which has no benches, which is fine by me. I am in the process of designing and building a seat box which will also serve as an attachment for downriggers and pot puller etc.

Here is pic of my prototype out of wood. I have already created a new design for the downrigger attachments and had them made out of aluminum. The seat box will be built out of aluminum this winter.

The box is essentially a custom sized, rain and splash proof, tool box. It is great! stores all the boat stuff, battery, lights, anchor, rope, tools, radio, safety gear, etc.

Just another idea.

 

[squidwood]

Re: Adding Bench to Inflatable

Hi, I had a similar problem, I purchased a second hand Avon Typhoon and there was no seat at all so I looked on Ebay for an inflatable thwart, was shocked that they cost around ?60.

I purchased some phenolic faced plywood and drilled 2 holes in each end and I just use releaseable cable ties to hold the seat to the ropes on the side of the inflatable.

The advantage for this is that the seat can be moved to the front or rear of the boat when required.

I purchased a pair of seat holders which needed glueing and was a bit unsure about how to fix them correctly.

I will add a picture when I get time of the seat fitted to the boat as it may be useful to yourself or give you another idea.

Dave

 

[FH alumni]

Re: Adding Bench to Inflatable

Oooo like the box idea. I also have a older grand raid and have been looking for front box ideas. The "wings" for the pole holder are a great idea. I'm thinking of makins something out of 1/2" marine ply with a
fiberglass gel coat. If made right the inflated tube should hold it. (Typed on cell so dont nail me on any grammer errors)