Rebuilding Aluminum Fishing Boat Bench Seats: A Step-By-Step Guide

Aluminum fishing boats are a great option for anglers, but their bench seats may not always be comfortable or convenient. Luckily, it is possible to rebuild or modify them to better suit your needs. Before making any changes, it's important to understand the structural role of the seats and the impact of your modifications on the boat's stability and rigidity. In this guide, we will cover the process of rebuilding bench seats for aluminum fishing boats, including removing the old seats, assessing structural integrity, and installing new seats with improved comfort and functionality.

Removing the bench seats from an aluminium fishing boat

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Before you begin, it is important to understand the construction of your boat. The bench seats in aluminium fishing boats are often part of the boat's structure, providing support and stability. They may also contain flotation devices or foam to prevent sinking in case of swamping. Therefore, removing them can impact the boat's integrity and buoyancy, so proceed with caution.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

You will need basic tools such as a drill, rivet gun, angle grinder, and safety gear, including eye protection and gloves. Additionally, have replacement rivets and aluminium sheets ready in case you need to make repairs or modifications.

Step 3: Remove the Bench Seats

Start by drilling out the rivets that secure the bench seats to the boat's floor and sides. Be careful not to damage the boat's hull. Once the rivets are removed, you should be able to lift the seats out. If the seats are hollow, check inside for any flotation devices or foam. Make sure to keep these safely aside, as they are crucial for the boat's buoyancy.

Step 4: Assess the Boat's Structure

With the seats removed, evaluate the boat's structure. Determine if there are any areas that need reinforcement to maintain the boat's integrity and stability. You may need to add cross members or braces to ensure the boat can handle rough water conditions.

Step 5: Modify and Reposition the Seats (Optional)

If you plan to modify or reposition the bench seats, carefully plan the new layout. Ensure that any modifications do not compromise the boat's structure or stability. You may need to add additional braces or supports to accommodate the changes.

Step 6: Reinstall the Bench Seats or Add New Seating

If you are reinstalling the original bench seats, use the rivet gun to secure them firmly in place. If you are adding new seating, such as pedestal seats or a different configuration, ensure that they are properly supported and do not affect the boat's performance or safety.

Step 7: Test the Boat

Once you have completed the modifications, test the boat in the water to ensure it handles well and remains stable. Pay close attention to any signs of flexing or instability, as this could indicate that additional reinforcement is needed.

Remember, safety should always be a top priority when making modifications to your boat. Consult with experts or experienced boaters if you are unsure about any aspect of the removal or modification process.

Installing a fishing chair on an aluminium bench

Step 1: Prepare the Fishing Chair

Firstly, you will need to prepare the fishing chair for installation. Most fishing chairs come with mounting holes at the bottom, which will be used to bolt the chair onto the bench. Use a piece of paper to mark the locations of these holes, as this will help you accurately transfer the measurements onto the aluminium bench.

Step 2: Mark the Drill Holes on the Bench

Before you start drilling, decide on the desired position of the fishing chair. Keep in mind that the bench can usually be flipped over 180 degrees if you want to adjust the seat position later. Once you have decided on the location, use the markings on your paper to transfer the hole locations onto the aluminium bench. This will ensure that the holes in the bench align perfectly with the holes in the fishing chair.

Step 3: Drill the Holes

Using a drill, carefully create the holes in the aluminium bench. Make sure the holes are large enough to accommodate the bolts that will be used to secure the fishing chair. It is important to drill straight through the bench to ensure a secure fit.

Step 4: Bolt the Fishing Chair to the Bench

Now, you can bolt the fishing chair directly onto the aluminium bench. Make sure the bolts are tight and secure to prevent any accidental detachment.

Step 5: Create a Rigid Frame

Simply bolting the fishing chair to the bench may not provide enough stability, especially if the chair has a backrest. To enhance the stability and safety of the setup, it is recommended to create a rigid frame by joining two benches together using square aluminium tubes. These tubes should be long enough to reach from one bench to the other. Secure the tubes to the benches using thumb bolts or wing nuts for easy attachment and removal.

Step 6: Test the Setup

Once the fishing chair is installed and the frame is in place, test the setup by applying weight to the chair. Ensure that the chair feels sturdy and does not wobble or shift when you lean back. If everything feels secure, you are ready to go fishing!

Additional Tips:

• Consider using quick-disconnect hardware or a swivel platform if you want the option to easily remove the fishing chair or allow it to rotate.
• Always be mindful of the structural integrity of your boat when making modifications. Consult a professional if you are unsure about the safety of your setup.

Creating a frame to support the weight of a fishing chair

Planning and Materials:

Before beginning, it's important to measure the interior width of your boat to ensure the frame will fit. Additionally, you'll need to purchase or gather the necessary materials. These include:

• An economy boat seat pedestal (available at retailers like Amazon, Kmart, or Walmart)
• A swivel base (optional but recommended for added comfort and flexibility)
• A fishing chair (prices vary based on comfort level)
• Stainless steel mounting hardware, including bolts with round heads
• A power drill
• A piece of paper

Installation Process:

Start by deflating one of the tubes of your boat. This will make it easier to place the frame inside. Place the seating frame inside the boat, and adjust its width by pushing the adjustable components until the outer sides of the aluminum frame tubes touch the inside of the boat tubes.

The next step is to secure the frame in place. Use a piece of paper to mark the holes on the bottom of your fishing chair, and then transfer these markings to the aluminum benches to drill matching holes. You can now bolt the fishing chair to the benches, either directly or using a quick disconnect or swivel platform for more flexibility.

To ensure the stability of the frame, it's important to create a rigid structure. This can be done by joining two benches together using square aluminum tubes. One hole on each bench should be enough to secure both ends of the square tube, and thumb bolts or wing nuts can be used for easy attachment and detachment.

Finally, re-inflate the boat tube, which will squeeze the seating platform securely between the boat tubes. For boats with plywood floors, the platform will rest on the stringers.

Additional Tips:

• The center of gravity should be lower to avoid falling during high-speed turns or sudden movements.
• When inserting or removing the frame, hold both hands at the insertion points and move the frame inside or outside in equal steps to avoid it getting stuck.
• You can use WD40 to make the assembly and disassembly process smoother.
• The installation process may vary slightly depending on the specific model of your boat and the type of seating frame you choose. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for detailed guidance.

Removing foam from the benches

Removing the foam from the benches of your aluminum fishing boat is a simple process, but it's important to ensure you have the right tools and take the necessary precautions. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Gather your tools and materials: You will need a drill, a suitable drill bit for the material of your boat's benches (typically aluminum or wood), safety goggles, gloves, and a face mask. It is also recommended to work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to avoid inhaling fumes from the foam.
• Prepare the work area: Place a tarp or drop cloth under the boat to catch any falling debris or foam pieces. This will make cleanup easier.
• Drill holes in the bench: Put on your safety gear, including goggles, gloves, and a face mask. Identify the location of the foam within the bench and carefully drill holes in the bench material to access it. The number and size of the holes will depend on the size and location of the foam blocks. Be cautious not to damage any structural components of the boat.
• Remove the foam: Use your hands or a suitable tool to reach through the holes and pull out the foam. You may need to break the foam into smaller pieces to remove it easily. Ensure you remove all the foam fragments to create a hollow space within the bench.
• Smooth the edges: Once all the foam has been removed, use a utility knife or sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges around the holes you drilled. This will help prevent splinters or sharp edges from causing injuries.
• Seal the holes: To maintain the integrity of the benches and protect them from water intrusion, seal the holes you drilled with an appropriate sealant or marine-grade caulk. Follow the instructions on the sealant packaging for proper application and curing time.
• Clean up: Dispose of the removed foam responsibly, following local regulations for waste disposal. Clean the work area, including any debris or residue from the drilling and foam removal process.

Remember, always prioritize your safety when working with power tools and potentially hazardous materials. If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, it is best to consult a professional or seek advice from experienced boat enthusiasts or forums.

Building a platform to replace the bench seats

Planning:

Before starting any work, it is important to have a clear plan and gather all the necessary tools and materials. Measure the available space in the boat and decide on the dimensions of the platform. Consider the type of seating arrangement you want to create and the number of people it needs to accommodate. Make a list of the tools and materials required, including wood, screws or bolts, marine caulk or adhesive/sealant, and any other hardware.

Removing the Old Seats:

Carefully remove the existing bench seats, following the advice of other boat enthusiasts who have done similar projects. Take your time and work methodically to avoid damaging the boat. It is important to understand the structure of the boat and the purpose of each component before making any modifications.

Building the Platform:

Using the measurements taken earlier, cut the wood to size for the platform. Consider the height of the platform and any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable seating position. Assemble the frame of the platform, using screws or bolts to secure the joints. Ensure that all fasteners are of the appropriate size and type for the material and application.

Installing the Platform:

Determine the best position for the platform, considering factors such as steering reach and comfort. Mark the mounting holes and drill them out. Apply a generous amount of marine caulk or adhesive/sealant to the holes and the underside of the platform to create a watertight seal. Carefully lower the platform into position and secure it with screws or bolts.

Finishing Touches:

Check that all fasteners are tight and that the platform is securely attached to the boat. Allow the caulk or adhesive/sealant to cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before using the boat. Consider adding cushions or upholstery to the platform for added comfort.

Maintenance:

Regularly inspect the platform for any signs of wear or damage. Maintain the wood with appropriate treatments to protect it from the elements and ensure its longevity.

Building a platform to replace bench seats in an aluminum fishing boat can be a satisfying project, providing a customised and comfortable seating solution. Always put safety first and don't hesitate to seek advice from experienced boat builders or enthusiasts if you are unsure about any aspect of the project.

Frequently asked questions