A couple options on casting deck

[DaveNay]

I have started to replace the front casting deck on my Grumman 16' aluminum V hull and I have a couple options that I can't decide on.

I have framed the platform so far, and I can't decide on a where to mount the trolling batteries and what is the best way to enclose the compartment under the deck.

The first two pictures show where I am thinking of placing the batteries. Either all the way forward in the bow, under the (not shown) platform for the trolling motor, or under the newly created hatches under the seat. I will probably upgrade to dual batteries, so in both pictures, imagine batteries on either side of the keel...mirror image. The batteries under the casting deck would obviously be mounted properly...I just couldn't get the box to sit right for a picture.

The other dilema I am facing is shown in the next picture. What is the best way to enclose the gap under the bench seats and prevent any small items from rolling under in into the rest of the boat? Should I also try to put a floor in the compartment above the keel? That is not the bilge pump...it is the aerator pump for the live well that used to be in this area but will be relocated to the rear deck in the future.

Thanks for any ideas and observations!

Here is the boat up in Canada....the one with blue carpet on the right.

Dave

 

[eyes4u]

Re: A couple options on casting deck

If it were me, I would definately put a deck in the area directly under your seat post mount. The space you will loose by adding the floor a couple inches above the keel, will be made by the ability mount things to the floor, and have them laying flat...A nice touch inside there too, would be to put some cheap carpet on the side walls to prevent things from banging around. Personally, I would mount the batteries in those areas. I would put them as far forward as you can, and make your wiring to the trolling motor receptacle as short as possible. Just my opinion.

 

[CN Spots]

Re: A couple options on casting deck

I'd go with a second deck too. It'll solve the gap issue, make a much better mounting platform for your batteries and your stuff won't pile up in the bottom of the boat where it will be exposed to water.

 

[DaveNay]

Re: A couple options on casting deck

Thanks for the ideas guys! I think I will put the battery up front under the trolling motor for now. I will probably just do a quick finish of the deck and carpet and not worry about lining the area under the deck. We leave for 10 days in Canada in less than three weeks, so I don't have time to get too complicated right now. In the fall I can finish it up better.

 

[DaveNay]

Re: A couple options on casting deck

Had a little time to work on the deck this week. All cut and fitted. Two coats of Rustoleum Smoke Grey and now ready to fit up the doors and then glue down the carpet.

 

[joe kennedy]

Re: A couple options on casting deck

hey I know this sounds really dumb but the last pic your boat looks all rusty? is it just dirt or is your boat steel? :-S also how did your support for your deck work out? im thinking nearly the exact thing but i fear it may get a bit loose given a bit of time. and one more question, how do you find the higher seat in the back? i have a pedestal and nice seats for when im done but like yours there a bit over the side of the boat. i am hesitant to put it in like that because it might make the boat more wobbly but more then likely not alot but comfort being a big thing. would be the best alternative to being able to see in front of the boat. looks great though. im in canada. where do you go?