R27 storage under port side steps inside cabin

[stwendl]

Just wondering if it was worth to add doors to access the space under the two steps at passenger seat next to steering station on a r27. I think this is where the heater or ac is located if so equipped. Some of you added access ports at the stairs. Does this weaken the the stairs in any way? Is the space underneath worth going thru this extra work?

Opinions/suggestions much appreciated

 

[trailertrawlerkismet]

Are you talking about the space under the microwave? If so it can be done. We had a matching louvered door (matches the doors under the sink) installed under the microwave in order to access the cave area under the settee for additional and accessible storage. The Ranger Tug folks did this at the factory so I'd have to say it is structurally doable.

Jim F

 

[stwendl]

I was actually referring to the space before the space under the microwave where the two steps are in front of the seats

 

[trailertrawlerkismet]

I'd suggest crawling way back into your cave to see how much room you have and what may be installed under your steps if anything, as model year changes and options may effect what you have for space vs another R27. Then I'd suggest calling Andrew, Kenny or Ivan at Ranger Tugs to enquire about the structure question. Let us know what you decide to do.

Jim F

 

[nzfisher]

I went in through the topside of this step on my R 25. There is quite a bit of space in there but it is not a trivial cut out. The top section has a resin impregnated honeycombed material that needs to be cut out. I made a teak lift out 1 inch thick hatch cover that is taken off to access the space. I considered making a door but the space is large enough that it is best accessed from the top. You can see it On my photo page for swims with tuna designated as y1. I don't know if this substantially weakens the structure or not but I suppose that would depend upon the stresses that were placed upon it. My own guess is the boat is plenty strong to make that cut out.

 

[H28]

My hats off to those of you who bravely take a saw to your RT's. Excepting my Hobie Cat, this is the first of my 7 boats that I have not taken a saw or drill to....my wife swore me against it, though I fancy that my previous modifications were well done..........