Marine cooler seat/poling platform installation

[kfa4303]

Hi all. Just thought I'd post a few pics of my latest and probably last addition to the boat (jinx). Nothing fancy, just a med sized marine cooler I got off of c-list for $15 and installed on the rear bench of my boat to serve as a seat, poling platform, cooler and/or dry storage. I made the cradle out of some leftover 1" x 1" x 1/8" aluminum angle held in place with SS screws dipped in 3M 5200. After the cradle was installed, I went back and rounded off the top corners so they'd be a little less razor-like. The cooler itself is secured with a turnbuckle on either side which is in turn connected to a small eye bolt that was screwed into the bench. I wasn't sure how well it would all come together, but man o man does it work! The cooler is so secure that if you move it at all, the whole boat sways and it's the perfect height to sit on while making long runs. It will even support my weight (160-170 lbs.) when I stand on it. Although, I may make a small plywood top for good measure. I now have lots more dry storage and I can remove the cooler along with my large umbrella, and take them out of the boat and onto the beach in about 30 sec. I hope to take her out tomorrow, if the weather holds. I'll try to take pics. Cheers!

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Marine cooler seat/poling platform installation

a few more pics......

 

[GT1000000]

Re: Marine cooler seat/poling platform installation

Nice addition, one which serves several purposes...may it serve you well...

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Marine cooler seat/poling platform installation

Thanks GT! I have a throw-able cushion I can sit on while underway that I'm trying to figure out how to attach to the top (Velcro perhaps?). Also, while the top seals nicely it's a little squishy when I sit/stand on it. I may drill a few small holes on the inside of the lid and spray in a bit of expanding foam to see if that firms it up. Who knows, it may even insulate the cooler a little more. Although, I think it's primary purpose will be as dry storage/junk container Thanks again.

 

[GT1000000]

Re: Marine cooler seat/poling platform installation

I like the expanding foam idea to help stiffen it up...

You can get sticky back velcro at places like craft or fabric stores...just don't rely 100% on the sticky back that goes on the cooler, because of the texture, you could use some short phillips flat hed screws to secure it, or some epoxy...on the cushion you might be able to sew them on...

Another idea to hold the cushion is to get some screw in snaps for the cooler side and have some snaps sewn to the cushion

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Marine cooler seat/poling platform installation

Good call on the snaps. I think you're right about the velcro adhesive too. The top is so slick and textured that I don't think that the glue would stick very well. Besides most marine cooler seats seem to be snapped in place. I'd only need one, or two. I think even I could sew that much.....I think. I wonder who could carry screw in snaps(craft store? Lowes/HD?) I suppose I could go to West Marine, but they'd probably cost $50 a snap. I'll check online to see what I can come up with.