sundeck engine cover aluminum framework?

[cornercanyon]

I am replacing the jump seats and engine cover with a sun deck. I was thinking about building the structural framework out of 3/4" aluminum square tubing. Providing for storage on either side of the engine and large lid over the engine for maintenance and/or removal. The deck would measure about 76" by 48".

Batteries and trim motor under removal storage on port side, two layers or deep storage on starboard. I was thinking if I could find plastic boxes, the storage could be removed for easy access to spark plugs, manifold drains, etcetera.

I would like to encourage all thoughts, pro and con.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: sundeck engine cover aluminum framework?

All sounds good except the lid..

You really need a doghouse that you can completley remove to get to every inch of your motor...

Unless of course I have read your plan wrong...

 

[MrMarine]

Re: sundeck engine cover aluminum framework?

If your not able to seperate the engine area cover for complete removal to access the engine. Why not make it all one unit all the way accross will a full piano type hinge and the ability to swing up the entire unit up and out of the way. The aluminum is a great idea and will make it light enough to swing it up. Or you could go with a slide pin connection so you could just remove it entirely. just make it as light as possible. I like the idea of storage bins under there (realy good idea). Good luck. Do up a sketch of what you plan i would like to see it. Oh make sure it will be strong enough to support a few people up there. IE: dont use the real thin wall aluminum.

 

[cornercanyon]

Re: sundeck engine cover aluminum framework?

Thanks for all the comments. I will scan in the drawing which should help.

The lid over the engine is planned to be entirely removable, though it could be hinged if preferable. Any thoughts?

Doing the calcs 1" square aluminum 16 ga (.065") set at 16" oc should carry a 500# point load (worst case) with < 1/4" deflection. Beefing up to 1/8" the deflection would be < 1/8"

I am thinking about either sheeting the lids with 3/4" plywood flooring epoxied then covered with marine carpet or that 1" Certainteed closed cell pvc sheeting (as seen in another post here) covered with marine carpet.

Thanks again, keep the comments coming! Would someone double check my deflection calcs?

 

[MrMarine]

Re: sundeck engine cover aluminum framework?

Cant do the calcs withought the length of the frame? Shoot me a design and i will work it up for ya. I dont think you want a big deflection. Let me know what sheeting you want to use spacifically wether 3/4" cdx, or whatever your going to use.

 

[cornercanyon]

Re: sundeck engine cover aluminum framework?

Sorry MrMarine

34" is the largest clear span; the lid over the engine itself. I am either going to use the nicest 3/4" plywood I can find here or that Certainteed product (closed cell pvc sheeting) mentioned in the post: "Alternative to wood?" here on iboats.

Thanks for checking my work! I appreciate your comments.

I will have a sketch with the general outlines in plan and elevations. I need to add the interior supports then I'll post, nothing pretty.