16' Crestliner Sportsman - Modification Question?

[Chimyz]

Hi all,

Don't post much, but do lurk and love the subject matter on this site! It has fueled my personal build and helped along the way.

Last year I purchased a slightly used 16' Crestliner Sportsman. No nonsense tiller drive tinney.

My question is, there are two seats or split bench between the front bench and rear of boat. The split bench I'm talking about is bolted into the floor and to the side of the boat. It is constructed of aluminum and covered with a piece of plywood. There is a cut out on each to allow for storage in them. I was wondering if these were a major source of structure or if they were for function only?

I would love to remove them and have more open space in the boat. It is used strictly for fishing and it would be nice to have space to move around. There is always a concern when two people are passing through the middle of the boat.

I would buy a bigger boat, but I need to win the lottery first.

Thanks in advance.

Cheers,
Marc

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: 16' Crestliner Sportsman - Moddification Question?

Re: 16' Crestliner Sportsman - Moddification Question?

They do provide support for the sides of the hull even though they are split - hence the aluminum framing. You might end up with a "flopping" hull and the sides of the hull will move significantly.

I understand exactly what you are trying to accomplish but my advice is leave them alone.

Good luck on the lottery part

 

[Chimyz]

Re: 16' Crestliner Sportsman - Modification Question?

Thought so...that's too bad.
I guess it's lottery time.