Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

[modicon2]

My 1997 Skeeter SS140 dual console has a storage/rodbox on one side (passenger) and a storage compartment in center. There is nothing on the driver's side (see attached pic).

I'm looking for options for more storage.
Anyone know whats under the deck here?

Can I cut the deck, install a door with hinges to create another storage compartment?

Thanks

 

[HAV2FISH]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

I went to Skeeter's web sight and looked at there boat's, and was surprised that none of there bass boats under 18ft have a storage compartment up front on the right side. I think i would have to give them a call and see if they have the prints on your boat. Here is the phone number on there web page 903-984-0541. Good luck.

 

[5150abf]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

BE really really careful, saw a guy ruin his bioat doing this.

Got out his saw and started cutting except he cut right thru the support for the front deck, got it fixxed but it was a mess.

Just make sure you know what is under where you are cutting and have a plan to reinfoirce it when you are done.

This has alot of oppertunity to go badly, plan ahead.

 

[JoLin]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

I went to Skeeter's web sight and looked at there boat's, and was surprised that none of there bass boats under 18ft have a storage compartment up front on the right side. I think i would have to give them a call and see if they have the prints on your boat. Here is the phone number on there web page 903-984-0541. Good luck.

Very good idea. I was also surprised that they didn't use that space for anything. The reason could be that there's a lot of structural support up there.

 

[modicon2]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

Very good idea. I was also surprised that they didn't use that space for anything. The reason could be that there's a lot of structural support up there.

That's my thinking. If it could be used for storage, you would think Skeeter would have made it storage. However, sometimes things are not always that logical. Just curious if anyone knew exactly what was under the deck on this boat in that area.

Per one of the comments above, I went to skeeter website and sent them the same question. I'm not sure why I didn't do that first. I always seem to come here first for all my boating needs.

Thanks for the replys!

 

[Rwebber77]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

Anytime I am concerned with cutting what's beneath I grab my circular and set the depth of the wood I'm cutting so there is no possibility of cutting too deep. Kind of a failsafe and has saved a lot of unnecessary repairs.

 

[robert graham]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

Any way you can remove that grey carpeted deck to see what's under it before cutting?...probably just some screws under the carpet...that's a nice boat and sure don't want to screw it up! Good Luck!

 

[Campylobacter]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

Every time I've thought I'd found some extra space, I've been wrong. I have a few holes I wish hadn't drilled, and panels I wish I hadn't cut. Be very careful!

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

Make sure that your livewell or fish box doesn't extend into that area. Some are positioned off-center to allow for stowage on one side of the boat.

 

[grego]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

I have a 82 corvette ,with tee tops . when I take them out I can feel the flex in the body of the car.
i would be careful when i cut holes in my boat

 

[Solittle]

Re: Can I cut in to deck to make storage?

I'd check with the manufacturer. Even if it seems there is an empty space it may be filled with flotation.