Hello. I’ve got a 2014 225 Freedom. I want to add a sun/casting platform between the bow seats. Grady doesn’t make them for this age of boat. Looking for plans, dimensions, pictures to understand how to make my own. Anyone seen any plans or pictures of these? Thank you.
Seeking: bow platform plans
- Thread starter Lpg
- Start date
The sky is limit as to materials/etc.
But... the jist of it...
-- For the sunpad filler - make a template out 1/2" foamboard insulation. I like this better than cardboard because it's stiffer and more like the real thing. When you're satisfied, use your template to make the structure board out expanded PVC or even just plywood. Add foam and vinyl - or take the board to a local upholsterer.
-- For the casting platform - it could be as simple as removing all of the cushions and laying two pieces of plywood down. You cover the bottom of the plywood with vinyl and wrap it around the top and staple, but plywood pretty gently on gelcoat.
The key is the template - and that's actually REALLY simple. You don't want to rely on someone else's plans - they could be wrong - measure/cut it yourself for the best results.
But... the jist of it...
-- For the sunpad filler - make a template out 1/2" foamboard insulation. I like this better than cardboard because it's stiffer and more like the real thing. When you're satisfied, use your template to make the structure board out expanded PVC or even just plywood. Add foam and vinyl - or take the board to a local upholsterer.
-- For the casting platform - it could be as simple as removing all of the cushions and laying two pieces of plywood down. You cover the bottom of the plywood with vinyl and wrap it around the top and staple, but plywood pretty gently on gelcoat.
The key is the template - and that's actually REALLY simple. You don't want to rely on someone else's plans - they could be wrong - measure/cut it yourself for the best results.
Fishtales
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I like the foamboard for the template and fitting to the boat vs plans. I'd use a 1/2" piece of Coosa board (sold at higher end lumber firms or those near the ocean) as the core. Then use either the West System or Total Boat (latter cheaper and just as good IMHO and available on Amazon) along with some stranded fiberglass mat. Maybe 2 layers of the stranded mat and then finish with some fine woven mat (3 total layers). I'd start with two layers one with a 4" overhang followed by the second with a 2" overhang on the edges, then the 3 layers on both sides. Should be more than strong enough. You can brush on the layers of gelcoat after and can put something on the top layer for some grip. I believe they sell it. If you don't want to jump in this hard, try fiberglassing for another small project to see if it is for you. If not, see a local shop. They will do it and it will look professional.
tx
tx