Got the main tank(150 gallon) pulled out today. As well as the sole on both sides cut out. Almost 65 degrees so I also got some fairing done on the transom and bracket.
Still need to take out the floor compartment immediately in front of the console. I plan on reusing so I cut around it for now. It currently and will continue to hold a 30gal fuel tank.
Really a shame to remove the whole sole. Other than 3 or 4 soft spots it was in great shape. However, every year I find another crack or void in the gelcoat so it was just a mater of time. The soft spots have all shown up in the last 3 years.
I am undecided on whether to include a hatch/cover over the main fuel tank(which is how it was), or just make the sole solid and maybe etch a cut line into it for future access. My initial plan was to make the sole solid, but it sure would be easier to install the sole if there was a cutout. However since the tank runs under the console, tank removal would require the console and leaning post to come out anyway. I have a few days to think about it before starting to template the sole.
If anyone has a neat way to build the sole without a hatch/cover, but still set yourself up for the future removal, I would love to hear it.
Have no idea what I did to stretch the picture, but you all get the idea.
