rick&sue
Well-known member
- Joined
- Feb 5, 2014
- Messages
- 135
- Fluid Motion Model
- C-248 C
- Hull Identification Number
- FMLT2506J607
- Vessel Name
- POPEYE
We spent part of last summer looking at larger boats (2 foot itis) but could not justify the additional cost for a minimal increase in useable space so we decided to continue to modify our boat for cruising “two up”. The major modification was to narrow up both seats and the dinette table. I made new seats that are about the same length as bases they sit on and took 4.5 inches out of the table. It is about the same distance from the wall as the floor under the table. This has made the interior appear much more roomy and allows two people in the aisle. The next modification was to the V-berth so we could sleep with our heads at the bow. This change makes it much easier to get in and out of bed. I eliminated the cushions on the sides of the bed, and added “side boards” a few years ago. This provided more sleeping room. Sue made covers and blankets that split in the middle for ease of use, which also allows her to have twice as many blankets as I use. We leave the square cushion out of the foot of the bed. It works great for us.
I added 120 volt outlets and USB ports to the wall at the table and 12 volt USB ports at the helm and portside seat. Added storage under the table for shoes and misc. added arm rests to the helm seat. Moved the paper towel holder and added a veggie and fruit basket. Removed all the curtains and installed up/down blinds with magnets at the extended position to stop them from banging when the boat rolls. The trailer suspension was bottomed out with the boat fully loaded, causing the tires to take the full force of every pothole, so I added a third axle. I also converted the hydraulic brakes to electric over hydraulic. I continue to use the old hitch because it has shock absorbers built into the hitch. Now I don't worry about every pot hole we run over.
I added pictures of these changes to the album “POPEYE”.
Next project is to replace the teak door in the head/shower with a sealed plastic door, install a door under the dinette for better access and install a door under that foot riser on the port seat. Then.... I think I'm done.....HA!
Sorry for the long winded post, but I thought someone else might be contemplating the same "2 ft itis" issue.
I added 120 volt outlets and USB ports to the wall at the table and 12 volt USB ports at the helm and portside seat. Added storage under the table for shoes and misc. added arm rests to the helm seat. Moved the paper towel holder and added a veggie and fruit basket. Removed all the curtains and installed up/down blinds with magnets at the extended position to stop them from banging when the boat rolls. The trailer suspension was bottomed out with the boat fully loaded, causing the tires to take the full force of every pothole, so I added a third axle. I also converted the hydraulic brakes to electric over hydraulic. I continue to use the old hitch because it has shock absorbers built into the hitch. Now I don't worry about every pot hole we run over.
I added pictures of these changes to the album “POPEYE”.
Next project is to replace the teak door in the head/shower with a sealed plastic door, install a door under the dinette for better access and install a door under that foot riser on the port seat. Then.... I think I'm done.....HA!
Sorry for the long winded post, but I thought someone else might be contemplating the same "2 ft itis" issue.