Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Specialty Marine RPS Cushion for 1991 17' Montauk - Any Good?

Posted by HBeric on 08/12/14 - 9:25 PM
#1

My RPS cushion needs replacement, and I have been looking at the one that Specialty Marine sells for about $200.

Do any of you have any experience with this item? If so, how is it in terms of quality, durability, etc? Does it look OEM? I am trying to keep my Montauk as original as possible.

Posted by gary0319 on 08/12/14 - 10:56 PM
#2

I recently purchased a complete set of cushions for my 1998 Dauntless.from Specialty Marine. They are a most accommodating company to deal with and the cushions are a good match to the original OEM ones. I've only had the cushions on for about 6 months so I can't speak to their durability, so far they seem great. See my personal page for pics.

Posted by mtown on 08/13/14 - 4:59 AM
#3

I bought one and was disappointed that the attachment is simply 8 screws from the underside [not bolts as original].
You are only screwing to 1/2" plywood at the bottom of the cushion. I was extremely careful and did not use a power tool as I was worried about stripping out the plywood. Second time I used the boat 3 of the 8 screws were rolling around on deck.
I called and was told that the reason that they do not install the barbed threaded inserts as original is that there are different patterns. Seemed like a reasonable explanation and they were pleasant and prompt to deal with.

Posted by Phil T on 08/13/14 - 5:36 AM
#4

For the matching cushion, contact Tena at Anderson's. They have been making high quality cushions for Boston Whalers for over a dozen years. If you want OEM quality, go with Anderson's. Click on the Sponsor link on the right sidebar for contact information.

While Specialty makes a good product, it is at a lower price point. You may have to replace it in a few years.

Posted by jvz on 08/13/14 - 10:52 AM
#5

Not even close...As Phil mentioned,Anderson's.

I'm going on 7 years on all my cushions and they are still
in great shape. They have the OEM material.

Posted by Marko888 on 08/13/14 - 12:31 PM
#6

I have a Specialty Marine RPS base on my 18. I would not buy another, as the Anderson's Cooler seat cushion we have is much much nicer. I'd recommend the higher quality choice.

Posted by todd12 on 08/13/14 - 1:22 PM
#7

I have bought 2 seats and a entire RPS. I am satisfied with the quality. The oldest seat is about 3 or 4 years old and has held up fine. My boat stays under a shelter. I went with the off white version, because it matched my painted interior better. If the price is close then I would go with the best product . Good Luck

Edited by todd12 on 08/13/14 - 1:28 PM