Front casting deck

[Black Max]

Wish I had pics, but looking for advice on making my 1976 Hydra-Sport Bass boat,front and rear decks flush with the compartment covers. I currently have a deck that has raised covers that are hinged to the deck base, I;m looking for a way to make both decks completely flush, like modern day bass boats, any suggestions would be lovely. It looks more like a cabin-cruiser deck than a beautiful flush bass boat deck.

 

[SuzukiChopper]

Re: Front casting deck

are all the compartments sheeted with wood? and do the compartments have a lip underneath them you can mount something to on the inside?<br /><br />If so then just cut a lid out of the same ply of wodd that is used for the sheeting, 1/16" or more (depending on carpet thickness) smaller then the hole you have. On the side of your choice mount two internal hinges that you can pick up at any hardware store (the ones that will allow the lid to lift and then pivot), then on the other three sides (or one if need be, three is stronger) mount some 3 x 1 or 4 x 1 strips that the lid can rest on. Finally on the side opposite your hinges mount a handle of your choice (obviously the flush mount pull up ones will be better). You can then carpet to match the deck, wrapping the carpet around the edges and securing underneath. This is where that extra gap comes into play. If you want a nice tight press fit when the lids are shut, make the gap a little less so the carpet provides the friction you want. You could probably also use a flush mount locking handle instead of figuring out the gap needed for the press fit.<br /><br />hope this makes sense and is of some help. it's what I'm going to be doing to mine when I'm at that point.

 

[SuzukiChopper]

Re: Front casting deck

oh yeah, with the strips used as a rest for the lid, if you want it really clean, put the screws in from the inside, not from the topside of the deck. Just make sure your screws are the right length to not come through the deck, could hurt with bare feet

 

[snudden 79]

Re: Front casting deck

Hey guys im also looking to put a front casting deck in my boat...I just bought the boat three days ago and don't know much about them..I have a 14' wide body deep v legand uiltility boat..What thickness of wood should I use,and how can I make it strong but light..Any ideas are welcome...Thanks ( I want the deck to come from the front little seat to the first bench seat...)