modify dinghy?

Question

Hi, I have a 9 foot "plastic" dinghy that I want to modify,specifically, add a winch for anchor, put in snap-in mounts for a swivel seat, and cleats. Is this possible to do?

it seems to be double-hulled. what would i use to seal all bolts? BTW, I want to modify because i have bad wrists and want to continue fishing as long as I can! :)

Answer 1

Yes. Most boats can be modified. You have to think out what you want to do as you not want to hinder performance. In your case, many of the Double Hulls may and I say "may" have a Styrofoam Core. It will be ridged, but, any through bolts be sure to use a good washer on both sides and not try to show how tight you can make it. Any places you worried of water leaks, you can probably use a good Silicon Rubber to seal your bolts and washers. I put on the bolt and push through, then put a little on the washers. The extra that squeeze out when you tighten, just wipe off. It sound to me you doing some basic stuff. Just be "sure" you know where you want things, like the Anchor Winch. This limit having to drill more holes than necessary.

Answer 2

I don't think the question is can you, as much as why would you? The cleats make sense. how big an anchor do you have in a 9' dinghy that you require a winch? and be careful about a swivel seat in a 9' boat. Center of gravity is important, and it'd be awfully easy to inadvertently swivel and swamp the boat ;)

Answer 3

You can use "Marine Tex" 2-part epoxy to seal the bolts, as stated above, be careful not to off set the center of gravity on the boat, making it unstable.

Answer 4

Yes you can do it, you may have to put a plywood backing peice under the plastic so that your bolts wont pull out. If you cant get a large piece of plywood under it try a large washer or piece of steel