Aluminum jon boat bench removal. Do or Don't?

[Crystallk11]

I have a 1980 16ft V hull, all welded aluminum jon boat that I am currently restoring. I am wanting to open the floor up a bit by taking out the middle bench seat. My concern is that I will be compromising the integrity of the entire boat if I take this seat out. The seat is welded to the side and bottom of the boat so it will need to be cut out. Maybe I am over thinking it but I'd rather be safe then sorry. I do not plan on installing a floor in this boat. Any advise and input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Grub54891]

No, don’t do it in my opinion. It’s part of the strength of the hull. On another note, I’ve been wondering why they call a v-hull a John boat? Around here a John boat has a flat bottom and square bow.

 

[Chris1956]

That seat also likely has flotation foam inside it. You will want that if you swamp.

 

[Crystallk11]

No, don’t do it in my opinion. It’s part of the strength of the hull. On another note, I’ve been wondering why they call a v-hull a John boat? Around here a John boat has a flat bottom and square bow.

Thanks for the input on taking the seat out. As to your question about the v-hull being called a john boat, well the only thing I can say is around here this boat is commonly known as a John boat or Utility boat. I believe the proper name for the boat is Utility boat.

 

[Crystallk11]

That seat also likely has flotation foam inside it. You will want that if you swamp.

You are right. This seat does have flotation foam inside it. Thanks for the input.

 

[airshot]

Cutting out a step thru would be ok, but removing the seat would for sure weaken the strength of the sides. Many folks create a step thru to make it easier to get thru that area, but leave material to support bottom and sides.
Have saw folks add a removable piece of plywood to cover the span of the step thru in case they wish to mount a seat or something there.

 

[cyclops222]

I would never remove the biggest floatation thing. That will keep you afloat if a big wake FILLS your boat. Been there in 2 other boats.