Possible Modification Project?

[spareparts]

I've seen some Formulas and Mako conversions that had something like you are talking about. If you look at most modern "ski boats" with a European transom, they usually have added flotation on either side of the out drive(look at Four Winns boats for inspiration). Bigshrimping on here built a Potter style bracket for his Sea Craft a few years back, its on the classic Sea Craft site, maybe he will link it on here if he notices this thread. Theres some good information on there for you about building what you are talking about. Before you start such an endeavor, i have to ask if you have tried to move as much weight as you can forward in the boat?

[randlemanboater]

I have seen what you are describing on some aluminum "Jon" style boats with larger 4 strokes on them.

I addressed the issue on my boat with stoppers for the floor drains (just remember to pull them when it rains).

I have a 20" transom and have never had a wave come into the boat from the rear, into the splashwell yes, but not all the way into the boat.

I would think if you move some weight forward and use stoppers, the extra floatation would not be needed.

But, if you do add floatation, you only need to make up for about 220 to 250 pounds, 630# (your motor) minus say 410# (my motor) or 380# (old school 2 smoke).

Just my $.02.

[SLOWDUK]

Thanks to everyone who took the time to comment.
Axespino’s suggestion to close off the motor well in front of the engine is a good one that the previous owner already incorporated. He mounted a piece of starboard about 8” tall with quick release clasps to separate the engine well from the cockpit. It’s not waterproof, but will inhibit a wave that enters the motor well from entering the cockpit.
Based on your advice, I went out to the boat today to take a closer look and take additional measurements.
As the most common advice was to move weight forward, I surveyed the possibilities. Currently, the batteries are installed in a compartment on the starboard side about one to two feet forward of the transom. On this dual console configuration, there are compartments port and starboard at the feet of the passenger and helm stations suitable in size for a dual battery installation. There is also a central compartment at the very bow of the boat that two batteries could fit in. Obviously, the most forward option is best for weight distribution, but does the longer cable run (approximately 25’) have negative impacts on the starter and charging systems? If the cable run has minimal negative effects, I will move the batteries to the bow. If a shorter cable run is better, I’ll move them to the amidships position at the base of the helm. Port side at the base of the passenger station would be better for left and right balance, but the helm location is easier because all of the other electrical, steering, and fuel lines run along the starboard side.
Let me know what you all think about the cable run issue.
As moving the batteries forward is the simplest and most inexpensive option, I will try that first and reassess the situation.
Thanks again for the assist and I’ll report back on the results.
Take Care, Slow

[SLOWDUK]

Thanks to everyone who took the time to comment.
Axespino’s suggestion to close off the motor well in front of the engine is a good one that the previous owner already incorporated. He mounted a piece of starboard about 8” tall with quick release clasps to separate the engine well from the cockpit. It’s not waterproof, but will inhibit a wave that enters the motor well from entering the cockpit.
Based on your advice, I went out to the boat today to take a closer look and take additional measurements.
As the most common advice was to move weight forward, I surveyed the possibilities. Currently, the batteries are installed in a compartment on the starboard side about one to two feet forward of the transom. On this dual console configuration, there are compartments port and starboard at the feet of the passenger and helm stations suitable in size for a dual battery installation. There is also a central compartment at the very bow of the boat that two batteries could fit in. Obviously, the most forward option is best for weight distribution, but does the longer cable run (approximately 25’) have negative impacts on the starter and charging systems? If the cable run has minimal negative effects, I will move the batteries to the bow. If a shorter cable run is better, I’ll move them to the amidships position at the base of the helm. Port side at the base of the passenger station would be better for left and right balance, but the helm location is easier because all of the other electrical, steering, and fuel lines run along the starboard side.
Let me know what you all think about the cable run issue.
As moving the batteries forward is the simplest and most inexpensive option, I will try that first and reassess the situation.
Thanks again for the assist and I’ll report back on the results.
Take Care, Slow

[SLOWDUK]

test

[bradford]

Slowduk I moved my batteries to a custom in deck hatch right before the cabin entrance on my cuddy. I used 1 gauge cables. I think putting them a little closer to mid-ship is better in that you don't have SO much dead weight in the bow, they won't get as much of a beating from the waves, and aren't going to get as wet with pulling in wet anchors and rode.

[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by bradford

Slowduk I moved my batteries to a custom in deck hatch right before the cabin entrance on my cuddy. I used 1 gauge cables. I think putting them a little closer to mid-ship is better in that you don't have SO much dead weight in the bow, they won't get as much of a beating from the waves, and aren't going to get as wet with pulling in wet anchors and rode.

Exactly correct. There's an unused compartment in your hull, just behind the hatchway into your cuddy cabin. Cut your deck and install a hatch big enough to get your batteries through and you'll be good to go.