99 PAN observers seat any way to make open cushion? Not full lift seat!

[iceberg50]

Trying to see if anyone has idea how to make the observer seat back cushion open like other boats instead on the observer having to get up and lift the entire seat just to get a quick item. I'd like the option to do either. Anyone done this before? Thank you

[s_kelley2000]

Hmm I never thought about it before but the backrest on that cushion is pretty narrow as it is since part of the backrest is really the end of the combing pad. You could cut an access square in the fiberglass backrest but it would be tough to balance making the access hole big enough to be functional but leaving enough fiberglass around the sides to keep the integrity of the backrest and allow it to support the weight of the seat base when the whole thing is lifted. I'm not sure this is the best idea either but if it doesn't interfere with the structural integrity of the boat then how about adding an access door in the walkway to the bow like they added in the newer boats? You could make that bigger and not have to have anybody move out of their seat to gain access.

[iceberg50]

I never thought of that side door either, that's an AWESOME IDEA. I think ill do that route maybe on both sides. Too cool

[s_kelley2000]

Nice, glad I could spark a good idea. Please post pics and results if you try it out. Maybe I will do it myself if it works well for you. You might have good results using something like this: http://www.wholesalemarine.com/slam-...FW9nOgod7hoACg

I am not sure there is enough space behind the kick panel on the driver side to make it worth it if it is the same setup as my Super Sport because the fuel fill line takes up a lot of space. Although with you having a direct drive I bet your fuel fill line is located in the rear of the boat so maybe it would be worth it.

I wouldn't think you have too much to worry about as far as hurting the integrity of the hull but it's always hairy cutting holes in your boat. The 89-92 Sports had access panels in those same spots and there didn't appear to be any additional bracing on my 90 Sport. I can't imagine your boat is less strong than those. Google image wasn't helping out too much but here is the best pic I could find of those, notice the black doors:

[pe4me]

That is the silliest design for that space, if it doesn't stack perfect...tub style is much better. I have very few ******* (maybe just a gripe) since coming from the dark side. If there was a kit that didn't involve to much hacking, I would bet there would be quite a few takers.

[s_kelley2000]

I agree that the tub style on the newer ones does work better. But when I was crawled all underneath there working on removing the old tower feet and putting the new ones on I was sure glad I could at least stretch my legs out and not be inside the tub.

***not sure why the pic of my transom got attached on my previous post, woops****

[s_kelley2000]

Here's the OEM part....wow that is pricey for what it is.

http://www.nautiqueparts.com/doorcoo...eattached.aspx