How should I go about this...

[1974merc]

1974 140 HP Mercruiser. There's just not enough seating in this thing! So I want to try and make a little more room. Here's what I have now...

I want to build a smaller engine cover and add little bench seats to the very back of the boat on either side of the engine. Then I want to add back to back seats for the front. Kind of have it look like these...

Has anyone ever done something like this? Any other ideas or words of wisdom before I dive into this project? Here are some pictures with everything removed in the back...

I honestly think that it would be pretty easy. And the most expensive part of it would be the new vinyl and carpeting. Any one have any thoughts on this?

 

[erikgreen]

Re: How should I go about this...

There's not a ton of room to work with, but if you take your time and do some good woodwork, you should be able to get a couple more seats.

Just keep in mind it's not going to look as roomy as those pictures... you just don't have the room. Might want to consider a bigger boat

The only things to watch out for as far as safety in that area are vibration and heat from the engine, excessive noise, and ventilation. The last is most important, make sure the engine space doesn't include any ignition sources when you're done, and make sure your blower can vent any fumes before use.

Post pics here

Erik

 

[rbh]

Re: How should I go about this...

what is the occupancy tag say?
how much room will you have with the back to back seats installed.
maybe a pedistal seat at the helm and angle/ sectional on side?
rob

 

[drewpster]

Re: How should I go about this...

I would first take a close look at the engine area and move anything I could inboard to make more room for the jump seats. One challenge may be the battery box. If you can build the port jump seat around the battery and still allow access to it, than everything else is easy. You may have to remove the box and make a new mounting to provide clearance for the seat base where the battery mounts.
You can buy jump seats but I bet they are too large to fit in that area. If you can find ones that fit then it is just a matter of building the engine cover. If you have to build everything then I would recommend good quality AC plywood. I would also go the extra step of using epoxy and fiberglass to cover the lower edges of everything for waterproofing. And coat all the rest of the wood with a couple of coats of epoxy to make the wood last longer. I would build everything with light ply. (maybe 3/8) and use stiffeners or doublers in areas prone to flexing or support. That will make them lighter. If you build it all out of 1/2 or 3/4 it may be to heavy.
just a few thoughts.
enjoy drewp

 

[1974merc]

Re: How should I go about this...

Those are some great ideas to think about. When I get home tonight, i'm going to do a bunch of measuring and find out how much space I do have to work with. This is going to be a winter project along with putting in a stereo and other things. What interior color goes with gold, besides gold?

 

[erikgreen]

Re: How should I go about this...

What interior color goes with gold, besides gold?

Purple if you like football in Minnesota... but I'd say maybe a deep blue or a red orange.

Or heck, go with gold, silver, and a bronze, and tell people it's an Olympics boat.