Interior redesign project
 

I have an old project that I've been redesigning to suit my taste. Hopefully this winter I can get some new foam/vinyl. What I'm looking for here is structural tips and features that can be easily implemented now.

Keep in mind, I'm not doing this to increase resale value. I actually enjoy the process of rebuilding a boat.

One of the first mods I made was combining the hatch with the back rest. I hated more than anything not having easy access to the bilge. Now I will be able to clean the sea strainers without having to stand on my head. I was a little worried about structural integrity but when I put in the supports to the floor and side it's just as strong.

What I would like to do with this is have the sunpad/backrest combined like these boats. The two with molded seats might be a little too much to ask from a local marine upholsterer. The one with all the speakers looks a little too busy for me, but you get the idea.

I'm wondering if I can have the foam/vinyl made directly to the hatch? I really don't want to use wood behind the foam if I can avoid it.

One thing I'm worried about with this is the way the hatch is hinged. It will pinch the pad when the hatch is opened.

For the seat base I want to have a Plexiglas speaker box made. The ppt showing how I would like it built. Down firing. I want the box to soft glow red at night.

The sides should be fairly straight forward. I put in recovered fountain seats, and I like the fountain side step. Making this step strong enough might be a bit of a challenge.

what kind of boat is it?

old 34' scarab iii (I know, I know)

I suppose I should mock it up in cardboard 1st or something like that.

Car hood style hinges, would make it swing up nd slightly away removing the pinch.

I thought about those Dana Power Hinges since I need an actuator anyway... if I found a used pair I'd do it. I was just looking at the long reach hinges from dana and still think this boat isn't worthy. Now some heavy duty truck hood hinges... maybe you're on to something?

The Danas probably would not lift that heavy of hatch once the backrest is attached.

Hey Griff, you're right, it's already heavy imo. Do you think I should go hydraulic ram over actuator?

What I decided to try (since this is boating on a budget) is making the hinges I need from these plans on ebay. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/03-Al...-/310269018822 The guy said someone has used the plans for a boat hatch, worth a look.

The standard Power Hinges won't do the trick, the hatch is too heavy. Our new Monster Power Hinges would lift that hatch three times over.
http://www.danamarineproducts.com/Im...mage1_1355.gif
http://www.danamarineproducts.com/Gr...9-499f7b443a6b

Dana dude, I love your products and have an open account with you guys... but putting $2500 hinges on this old hull?? C'mon man :)

Just giving you options. We can also set you up with two hatch rams, 4 brackets, 2 quick release pins, and a hatch accellerator for just under $1000.00. With your account, possibly cheaper.