Inflatable Bench Seats

[Gingerman]

I am looking at adding wooden bench seats to a couple of inflatables. These boats have no allowance (attaching hardware) for such modification, and the manufacturers advise against modification. I guess they have to, so there is no liability for damage I do by their advise.

Anyway, one is a Sevylor and the other is a Sea Eagle Kayak.

How do you fasten the darned seats to the tubes?

Any suggestions?

 

[Chris in Indiana]

Re: Inflatable Bench Seats

Most manufacturers sell bench seats with their mounts on the ends, typically aluminum extrusions. They also sell the mounts that go on the boat which have to be glued on. You slide the mounts on the seat, position it where you want and mark the spot where they need to be glued. It's expensive by the time you buy all that stuff, particularly if it's a hypalon boat. Just the glue is $40.

Most people buy a pressure treated board, or maybe a synthetic material like StarBoard/SeaBoard or a plank of exterior deck board. Then cut it long enough to sit on top of the tubes near an existing D-ring or handle. You can drill a hole in the board and tie it down. As long as the edges are rounded smooth this works fine and often can be left on the boat when it's rolled up. You might also check out nrsweb.com or defender.com to see what they have.

 

[Chris in Indiana]

Re: Inflatable Bench Seats

I just realized you stated you have PVC boats, including a sea eagle. I've had good luck using 3M brand 5200 fast cure glue to attach D rings and patches. Works great but keep in mind it's permanent, and the tube of glue will usually dry out on you in a couple of days. I keep mine in a ziplock inside of a tupperware container and can get a month out of it.

Anyway I'll see if I can attach a picture here of an old sea eagle I have. The upper deck/seat is bigger than what you are looking for but you will get the idea. I cut holes in the boards that fit over the motor mounts to keep it in place.