Re: Intex Mariner 4 modifications and Tips
Petoria: Welcome to the fraternity! Heck we may even have an associated sorority! I'm often baffled myself!
Speaking for myself, I'm still a newb in many ways, so don't hesitate asking! I can't say I know the width of my floor, but I could measure it if you'd like. Just be forewarned that not every boat is exactly the same dimensions.
For the width through the middle, I cut one of the 4' sections a little wide (based on the slats) then placed it on the bottom, with the boat deflated. From that I got a better idea and cut off what I thought was enough. The annoyance was not that it wasn't right the 1st time but that I felt I should sand the edges round-ish, for each attempt, to ensure I'd not put a splinter through the boat while sizing the floor. This had to be done a number of times for the ends, as they taper. My floor can not go in or come out with the tubes fully or even half inflated, so the fit is relatively tight, hopefully without putting any stress on the seams along the bottom.
My floor width is not shorter than the slat/planks. I figured that if the slats could fit between the bottom and the tubes, along the edges and be that thick, my thinner floor could easily be that wide, if not a touch wider.
MrDr: A foot controlled trolling motor!? Gees! So when do you get the gal who fans you with an ostrich feather while feeding you peeled grapes!? Just messin' with you, of course, in a possibly somewhat sexist way, but hopefully not to an offensive extent! That ride of yours is getting slicker and slicker all the time! I'll admit I have thought of such a motor but only in passing. If I'm ever out your way I might just have to invite myself along for a ride! You'd certainly be welcome along out here. Best of luck in your search for a bow mount. Keep us all informed of what you decide, either way, and why. We're closing down the office early today for the holiday, so I hope to get out fishing in a few hours myself. It's hot and the bass should be active!
