Bayliner Bowrider Conversion

[j1mmy420]

I know I know another Open bow conversion topic. But I have to get everyones opinion since you all have experience. I have a 97 Bayliner Capri Cuddy. My plan is to cut the bow open but not completly remove the bow.
Basically I want top cut around the deck hatch in a triagular shape leaving about 18 inches or more to the edge of the boat. THen simply smoothen out the edges and install a "grommet" or rubber molding on the cut out portion.
let me know what you think. Below is a picture of what I want to do

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Bayliner Bowrider Conversion

Is your cuddy a step down into the cabin? I really do not know if that will interfere with the original construction. I think more than a gasket will be needed and it may have to have a flange installed.

 

[lowkee]

Re: Bayliner Bowrider Conversion

Sounds pretty straight forward to me. I really, really hate seeing someone decimate a cuddy like that. You may wish to take the project one step further and make a tiny (1/8" would do) flange on the top of the removed portion with swing in tabs on the bottom so it can be 'removable', not just 'removed'. This way your privacy won't be lost forever and it may even help your re-sale over other cuddies. Better than 'cuddy conversion' .. 'cuddy convertible'!

 

[Mark42]

Re: Bayliner Bowrider Conversion

What is the reason for the mod? What are you trying to acheive? More open air seating area? A place to stand and fish?

It doesn't seem like a hard modification. There are lots of edge moldings available that just push on for a factory finish look. My concern is that the opening will not be big enough to serve much purpose other than to look at the stars at night while lying in the cuddy.

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Bayliner Bowrider Conversion

Hello Jim..

You could do it sure..but keep in mind that your going to have to deal with your deck core edge as well. ( rubber grommet wont do..doubt a slip joint will do..

Grinding the core between the lams an inch into the deck and packing with glass would be my choice.

After that you could just spray gel and finish to make it that " made to order " kinda thing.

How would you keep water from going into your cuddy liner, floor..etc.. ?

For what reason you thinking of doing this mod ?

YD.

 

[j1mmy420]

Re: Bayliner Bowrider Conversion

Well
My goal is to be gain more space. I basically only use the cuddy for storage. I would like to be albe to fish from the bow of the boat. I would also like for the young ones to be able to sit in the cuddy and get some fresh air. The bow hatch just does not cut it.

I do have a step down into the cuddy. I do not know how that would affect things. I love the idea of the " Cuddy Convertable". I will definately consider taking that extra step.

I have had this boat since new and I believe it is ready for some mods.
Let me know your thoughts
1997 Bayliner Capri 2052 LS

 

[maxum247]

Re: Bayliner Bowrider Conversion

Your gonna need to figure that remodel carefully before diving in. How about some interior picture's do you have any?

max!

 

[jonesg]

Re: Bayliner Bowrider Conversion

I wouldn't do it, it could be done, but not for me.
I'd sell what you have now, clean it up instead of cutting it up.

I'd look for a center console with a walkaround cuddy.
I see real good ones for around 5-6K on craigslist.
Nice Grady whites.
A center console walkaround project would be a lot cheaper but I don't see any or I would have gotten one already.