I'm curious how big of a job it would be to fill two cuddy window hatches on the front deck since I rarely use them and I like the race/smooth deck look more. I've seen a number of Panteras and Excaliburs on here that have done this but I can't seem to find any specifics on how they did it. I read Dave's write-up a few threads down about filling dash holes; would that method work for this just on a larger scale? I'd want to make sure if I do this that it will be extremely strong to resist cracking or damage when someone is walking up there to throw out the anchor. Thanks

what kind of boat is it an ya got any pics?


the method is essentially the same but a bit more involved . . . . and you just gave me chapter twenty three

Thanks, it's a 22 Avanti with the 2 small original flip up windows. They work fine so my options are to just leave them as is, try to convert them into something more low profile, or to fill them in if it's not too complicated of a job. I've also seen some where they just remove the window top and cover them with some type of painted sheet metal looking material (I'm guessing an aluminum sheet) which looks ok but I'm not sure how strong that would be if someone accidently steps on it. I don't have any pictures of mine handy since it's in storage now but I found this boat on Craigslist that are the same style.

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/boa/4315248387.html

no way, thats pretty cool an I just happen to have one in my shop at the moment. its oso meber Phragles boat, he's been using a corner of my shop this winter putting in a floor and custom interior (sit down seats, center console, etc) they are very cool and something ya dont see everyday. It has the same hatches so I'll take a look at it tomorrow and see how their installed.

I also have the vector file for the Avanti logo if you need it.

If you decide to fill them, I want your old hatches. If you don't, make sure they latch good. One of mine blew open and busted the strut mount. I will try and snap a couple picks tomorrow to give you an idea what I am doing to the interior.

here are a couple piks of the sitdown mockup on the Avanti

[ATTACH=CONFIG]518955[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]518956[/ATTACH]

Thanks, I actually got the logo file off you sometime last year but I appreciate for the offer. Phragle, that mock-up is looking real good but are you still going to be able to get to your cuddy? If you’re doing that much work to it you may want to try to put a fiberglass windscreen on it instead of the windshield. Mine was redone at the factory back in 2002 and I think it looks more modern with the windscreen. On a side note we need an Avanti forum on here!

I will be able to slide in from the passenger side. Normaly I am a fairing guy, but on this particular boat I really like the look of the windshield.

Looking good Phragle! I am digging the layout.

Thanks... A little different from your Apache. I was going top use that mold to build the console, but it was to far on the small side. The mold itself is actually still on the small side. I will be doing switches in the console like yours, how did you do your wiring? Junction bar between the dash and console?