Huge empty space where aux tank goes- unused storage?

[zimm]

I was poking around my new to me boat and noticed the empty cavern under the floor. There's plumbing roughed in, so I'm assuming it's where the second gas tank would go. Looks like a terrific storage area going to waste. Wonder if the floor panel could be hinged and use it as a storage locker? Stupid idea? Does it need to be sealed for the self bailing cockpit to work?

 

[NikM820]

I turned mine into a coffin box. Search through my posts to where I have it listed for sale and you will see what I did.
Nick

 

[NikM820]

Here ya go :mrgreen:

 

[zimm]

Cool! Did you gel coat the inside? What did you use for the latch? My hatch is the forward one between the seats- the rear one that you have as storage is where the 93 gallon tank is.

 

[NikM820]

It's been a while and I didn't do the work myself. A boat builder in ther area does glass work and he did it for me. The forward one would probably not work as a coffin fish box like mine but you should be able to figure something out.
Good luck
Nick.

 

[Doc Stressor]

Back in the day, it was common to use the forward 72 gallon fuel tank compartment to store scuba tanks. They would use a stainless steel spring that would lift the piece of floor panel and secure it with stainless steel latches like the ones on the newer cabin door top panels and stainless steel hinges on the other side.

You can use the area for any type of storage that doesn't require the bin to be 100% water proof. Gas loaded shocks would be a modern alternative to steel springs.