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Last winter I increased the height of my RPS by 6" using the Teak block method I read about here so while I was at it I added some tackle box storage underneath the seat. This is probably the best upgrade I've done so far so thought I'd share.
This is actually version 2.0 and although I made a fairly major design flaw I'm pleased with the results and if I ever get around to version 3.0 I could easily fix my mistake. I really planned this thing out but I didn't allow enough clearance for the Stainless bar that runs under the seat so instead of two full height Plano boxes I can only fit one full height box and one short box in each compartment.
This was my first time building anything with Azek cellular PVC lumber and I really like it. The best part about this stuff is it glues quickly and strong as a rock so no fasteners were needed and it's very easy to work with. Originally I was going to do this project with Starboard but this stuff is about 1/4 the price and Starboard can't be glued. Even with the rough finish it looked good but I hit it with 2 coats of white spray paint and even after a harsh season of use it still looks great.
The wood in the bottom of the seat is either 5/8 or 3/4 plywood so I just fastened it to the underneath using (10) 6" x 1/4" galvanized carriage bolts (couldn't find SS in that size). I counter sunk the holes just enough to grab wood but not too long as to poke through into my seat... I run the boat hard and after the first season it's still solid as a rock so I'm pretty sure this will outlive the seat by a longshot but there are a couple other options for how I could attach it, this just seemed like the most straight forward.
I had a very detailed set of design plans when I started but made some major changes along the way so they're pretty useless now. The major dimensions of the box are 30.5"w x 15.5" d x 5.5" high using 3/4" cellular PVC lumber. The inner measurement on my seat legs in the front (was) only 30" w so I shaved 1/4 off the inside of each seat support on the front to make it fit. In the back the RPS legs are a fairly funky shape so I had to do some very detailed carving of the Azek to make it fit. It may seem trivial to get that extra .5" w but it was the only way there would be enough room (9.33" each) for 3 boxes side by side to allow enough room for the hinges and latches...
The lumber I used was only 5.5" wide so if I were to do it again I'd use 6.5" boards. The tanks still have plenty of clearance and that way I could fit the full height plano 3700 series boxes.
(moderator note: [IMG] does not work in the discussion areas)
PS, I thought I originally posted this in the "Boats" forum but you moved it to parts. Isn't this a modification thus falling into the "Boats - Ask questons or give advice about repairs, modifications or information about Whalers" category?
