Did my Grady have stern bolster cushion or back rests ?

[fisher91blue]

I searched forums, but did not find a thread that answers this question. I have a 1987 Overnighter 205 (that's the I/O version). At the stern seats there are 2 holes behind each. I am wondering what used to be there? Thinking either a bolster rail of some type or possibly back rests. If anyone has pictures, would be greatly appreciated, I am going to try to fabricate something to support those sitting there. For now, we use a throwable seat cushion.

 

[seasick]

Are the holes about an inch in diameter or just a screw hole. If you have the holes about 1 inch, you probably had bolsters. The holes are where the brackets on the back of the bolster slip into. It is also possible that if you had bolsters originally , the back and side may have been a one piece wraparound type.
There are foam coming pads that can be cut to length that are relatively inexpensive. Here is one example

https://www.amazon.com/Castaway-Customs-Bolsters-Adhesive-Installment/dp/B081ZCDT9S/ref=asc_df_B081ZCDT9S?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80058282095146&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4583657830603703&th=1

 

[DennisG01]

I would venture a guess that, regardless of how they attached (which, at this point, is a moot point since you can do whatever you want), they were probably short and no higher than the gunwale. Go to Grady's site - you should be able to find pictures in the old brochures.

For real support, you'll want to build something taller.

 

[seasick]

One problem with making back rests taller is that it makes access to the swim ladder harder both getting off and getting on.

 

[DennisG01]

Sure, it becomes a small tripping hazzard. All depends on "priorities". An easy solution would be to make them drop-in/removable. But 4" or 5" higher than the gunwale shouldn't be a problem for most people.