Add gas shocks to cooler seat in 230

[hal2814]

My 2011 SAN 230 has a cooler compartment under the middle starboard bench seat. It’s kind of a pain to flip up the seat and open the cooler. I was thinking of adding gas shocks to keep the seat up while I get I to the cooler. Has anyone done this? Any tips or alternatives or reasons not to do it? My wife has a bad back and this is one of those weird things that isn’t strenuous but puts a lot of strain on her back.

[dhanni848]

I see no one responded here, but did you ever install shocks under that seat? I am looking to do the same thing and surely we are not the only 2 that wanted to do so! Revive an old one, but have the same question.

[hal2814]

Not from me. There was a poster I think here who implemented something using using the piano-style hinges but he had to fabricate some brackets to get it to work.

[dhanni848]

Hmm ok, it looks like it would be so easy to accomplish.

[hal2814]

The main problem is that the sides of that compartment aren’t flat. They have those two angled cutaways up top. If you do figure something out I’d love to hear about it.

[Indygreen]

I have added a gas shock under the cooler and it was very easy to do. I can't remember shock length and lb's but I'd be happy to share some photos etc. once I get it out of storage. By far one of the the best additions I've done to the boat. Plan to add a shock to the port seat also.

[dhanni848]

I have added a gas shock under the cooler and it was very easy to do. I can't remember shock length and lb's but I'd be happy to share some photos etc. once I get it out of storage. By far one of the the best additions I've done to the boat. Plan to add a shock to the port seat also.

Yes!!! I knew someone had to do it and figured it had to just be a couple bolt points and a shock. Would love some pictures and if you magically find any part #s. Thank you!

[shag]

I can't wait to see how this was done!! Thanks Indy!

[Indygreen]

Sorry guys, finally got pictures.

[Indygreen]

I through bolted the bracket on the bottom. I need to try and duplicate this on the starboard seat.

[shag]

I through bolted the bracket on the bottom. I need to try and duplicate this on the starboard seat.

Nice! When you say through bolted, did you do a backing plate as well? Or just the 2-3 stainless bolts... Did the brackets come in a kit with the shock? It' is hard to read the numbers, what length and weight is the shock? Looks great and I am going to copy you and do this if that's cool... Excellent upgrade!

[Indygreen]

Yes stainless bolts with lock nuts. Did not use a backing plate and seems to work fine. To the side enough it doesn’t get in the way. I’ll measure the length and see if I can determine the lbs. By far one of the best upgrades I’ve made.

[shag]

Yes stainless bolts with lock nuts. Did not use a backing plate and seems to work fine. To the side enough it doesn’t get in the way. I’ll measure the length and see if I can determine the lbs. By far one of the best upgrades I’ve made.

Very cool, feel free to PM me that info if can... Thanks!
Mike

[hal2814]

I’d appreciate if you could post the measurement info instead of PM. I’m also having a hard time finding the shock based on the numbers posted.

[dhanni848]

Sorry guys, finally got pictures.

I missed you posted the pics!!! Did you purchase from the nautique parts site? Thank you so much and any length, lbs, part numbers would be greatly appreciated as others have said...you rock!