Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

[BigB9000]

I just got a new (1980's) Hull, and I'm thinking of making it a center console. I'm looking for pictures of others (conversions or stock) to get some ideas.

Any takers?

 

[arks]

Re: Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

Sure!
Here's my '95 Lowe "Big Jon" 14 footer. The console is fiberglassed plywood. The whole boat was painted with a 2 part automotive enamel.

It's technically a "side console" because I wanted enough room to move to the bow. It works pretty well and runs great with 25HP. It's my Low Budget Bass Boat.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

Very nice. I think it was a good idea to offset the console so you have easy access fore and aft.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=261834

 

[jonesg]

Re: Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

Sure!
Here's my '95 Lowe "Big Jon" 14 footer. The console is fiberglassed plywood. The whole boat was painted with a 2 part automotive enamel.

It's technically a "side console" because I wanted enough room to move to the bow. It works pretty well and runs great with 25HP. It's my Low Budget Bass Boat.

nice looking job, does it lean to the console side ?

 

[arks]

Re: Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

No, because when I built it I balanced the weight by putting 2 batteries on the port side- a small one at the stern and a larger tractor battery (for the trolling motor) in front of the center bench.
Actually, my biggest problem was getting enough weight forward. She wanted to squat at the stern and wouldn't get quickly on plane. The trolling motor and battery helped, but I found the best solution was to keep the anchor and spare 6 gallon gas tank strapped to the floor at the bow. Now she'll jump on plane. It's set up for 2 people, but I've hauled 3 without any problem.
The obvious lesson- these small boats are VERY sensitive to weight distribution and can be trimmed pretty easily by just moving stuff around.

 

[jonesg]

Re: Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

You'll be wanting one of these super fancy leaning posts, cost at least $15.

PVC tube came from electricians dumpster.

If you like this idea...

you might be a redneck.:redface:

 

[maxum247]

Re: Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

I prefer the $20 version, has a padded rump rest with velcro fasteners so the cover can be removed and stored when not in use.

 

[jonesg]

Re: Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

I prefer the $20 version, has a padded rump rest with velcro fasteners so the cover can be removed and stored when not in use.

Just to the left of the leaning post is a bench seat top, sitting on the cardboard box, I'm trying to figure out how to attach it.
I don't think velcro will hold it, maybe metal strips around the pipe, screwed into the wooden bottom of the seat. Bench seat is slightly wider than the post.

 

[maxum247]

Re: Lets see your Custom/Home-built center console!

Here's a picture of my simple built not yet complete center console.