converting closed bow to open bow?

[98durango]

I have a 1975 18' aluminum Starcraft deep Water. I wanted to cut open the closed bow and convert it to a open bow, Has anybody done this? Is it possible? Any problems I might encounter?<br /><br />Thanks : Jamie

 

[NMplayer]

Re: converting closed bow to open bow?

I'm not sure on aluminum boats. On fiberglass hulls the covered bow is often stuctural and things have to be done to retain the strength. It could be the same with yours. Anything can be done, you just have to think really carefully about it. If the bow cover is what they used to support the sides of the boat, then you'll have to devise some thing that will do the same thing

 

[JB]

Re: converting closed bow to open bow?

Boat topic.

 

[Tacklewasher]

Re: converting closed bow to open bow?

I'm thinking the same thing. I've got an 18' Starcraft Holiday I'm in the process of converting from an I/O (OMC Stringer) to an O/B. Plan to do the floor next year and I was looking at the bow thinking how nice a casting platform would be up there. <br /><br />I think it's possible but there's a couple things I would do. First, I would leave a fair amount of the bow in place. Probably 10 inches on the side and a good foot to 18 inches from the bow. Then I would not have the floor at the same level as inside the boat, but have it raised 6 inches or so and really put in some serious supports across the bow at that level. Probably 2X6 stringers cut to the shape of the hull. Then I'd build storage cabinets under what is left of the bow as I'd need the storage and the verticle support.<br /><br />Not this years project for me though.

 

[Straightup]

Re: converting closed bow to open bow?

Sounds like a big job! I had a '70 Larson with a closed bow and never considered converting it. The gas tank was under there and moving somewhere else would take up all the space I would have gained in the bow. Also, I would have needed a completely new windshield as the one on it was not designed for walk through.<br /><br />My kids and I just got done with boaters safety class. I'm almost certain that for it to be legal to seat people in the bow you must have a rail of some sort around the bow.

 

[Tacklewasher]

Re: converting closed bow to open bow?

My tank is coming out from under the bow one way or another. I'm thinking of putting one in the floor. The one under the bow is a pain and is just using up storage space.<br /><br />I would not put seating up there, except maybe one pedestal seat, as I want a fishing platform. But I would add a rail anyway.<br /><br />My windsheild is already a walkthrough so I'd just have to add a small door.<br /><br />But I'm still in the thinking stage. Gotta get the OB working first.

 

[79Starcraft]

Re: converting closed bow to open bow?

Jamie,<br /><br />Yes, my friend did this to his 1973 15 ft Starcraft. His boat turned out great. The hull is very strong and the boat performs well.<br /><br />If you have any questions I can pass them on to him.<br /><br />Chris

 

[98durango]

Re: converting closed bow to open bow?

79Starcraft, can you get some pictures to post? If it's not any trouble of course.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[randyo]

Re: converting closed bow to open bow?

Originally posted by Straightup:<br /> My kids and I just got done with boaters safety class. I'm almost certain that for it to be legal to seat people in the bow you must have a rail of some sort around the bow.

I searched the web and couldnt find any mention of this. My boat doesnt have a rail-- anyone know for sure?<br /><br />

 

[Straightup]

Re: converting closed bow to open bow?

Great pic randyo, & nice boat! Your boat may be an exception - I'm sure a trusted Manufacturer like Glastron would not sell a boat that doesn't meet safety codes. Maybe the bow is deep enough that a rail isn't required for your model? Check with CA regulations and your local Coast Guard Axillary. My folks and I owned a 175 SSV 20 years ago. It was an awesome boat. I'd feel safe in a Glastron anywhere anytime!