Cutting bench out of 1548 Weldbilt

[ccope]

I've heard mixed reviews about cutting the middle bench out of aluminum boats and wanted y'alls thoughts. This is the perfect size boat for my needs, but w/ only being 15' the middle bench takes up valuable floor space. I'm thinking if I put an aluminum floor w/ added floatation underneath between the ribs that I would make up for any lost support that the bench was giving me. With that said, do any of you know someone that could cut the bench out and install an aluminum floor?

[Anatidae]

I don't know of anybody that would be willing to cut the bench out other than Weld-bilt........for liability purposes.

That being said, I don't see a problem with removing it....even if you did it yourself. You'd be more likely to find someone to put material back 'in' there.

We had a Weldbilt 1542 with an open floor plan.....just an extended front deck and a rear bench. The support ribs (unless they omitted them in placee of the middle bench) should be fine if you stay within the load limits. Otherwise, you can probably order some ribs or have some made to fit.

The only person I know that could 'make' what you need is located in Brooksville. If you can't find someone to do it for you and you want his info.....send me a PM.

Good luck with your project.

[Trip]

If you take your time, it's a very simple job to do yourself. I've done the same thing to 4 different boats and had no problems arise from the middle seat being removed. A sawzall and an angle grinder will make quick work of that seat...

[ccope]

Thanks