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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.

http://s1072.photobucket.com/user/Wha...d.jpg.html

(moderator note: [IMG] does not work in the discussion areas)

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Whalerbob,

I also posted this on your other thread:
http://www.whalercentral.com/forum/vi...d_id=18356

(moderator note: [IMG] does not work in the discussion areas)

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that's an interesting idea. how did you fasten to the underside of the RPS?

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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.

View from the outside looking in - without plano boxes.
http://i1072.photobucket.com/albums/w...af63d4.jpg

View from behind showing LED courtesy light:
http://i1072.photobucket.com/albums/w...1c6c28.jpg

Same shot but a higher angle shows how it's hidden under the seat.
http://i1072.photobucket.com/albums/w...c2678f.jpg

View from underneath:
http://i1072.photobucket.com/albums/w...1a8071.jpg

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.

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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?

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RPS is a part and so would the custom tackle storage box be a part.
It could also have a Leaning post which is also an optional part.

"Parts
Questions and information about Boston Whaler parts, sources, the OEM parts pages, etc..."

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