Accordian type /folding Splash well

Happi1fla · #1 06-15-2009, 03:46 PM

Hi, looking to find or build an accordion type folding splash well. Have seen these around somewhere. The old type (permanent) splash well will get crush some 5” or 6” when the motor is up all the way (locked) for tailoring. I have a 1979 20’ MA. This motor just folds down more than the older one. It’s been a while, saw some of you guys at Long point (Sebastian) a while back. Will send pictures. I appreciate the help this has been a slow process getting this boat back together but I love it. Thanks John

2182 · #2 06-16-2009, 06:39 PM

when i got my 18 it had a 6 inch tall piece of grimy plywood as a splashwell. i took a piece of marine plywood, cut it to fit across the whole front of the splashwell cutout, then used a jigsaw to cut a notch out of the middle area for the cowling when motor is tilted up. using a cd or even a sanding disc to trace prtions of a circle for rounded edges works well. curving all the edges and sanding a bunch made it noce and smooth. 8 layers of spar urethane and shes going strong two years later. to make one "accordion style", just cut the piece of wood (marine ply or you could use trimmed down 1x12 probably) to fit, then rip it in half and use a piano hinge down the middle. then get four of those little disc closer things (im sure theres a name) or barrel bolts and mount them on the sides, top and bottom. and away you go...i can send you a picture by email, havent figured out how to post on here yet.

Snookerd · #3 06-16-2009, 10:05 PM

The post Potter boats did have the fold down splashwell doors with a piano hinge. My 130 Yamaha on my 18SF would hit the door when it was closed. It was nice to trim it up and just fold the door down.

RS · #4 06-17-2009, 12:28 PM

I used a piece of Starboard to make it just high enough so that the motor would not hit it while being able to slide it into its slot. I intended to add another piece with a hinge to make it higher.

After 6 years and many experiences with water at the stern (backing down, green water breaking over the motor, etc) I can tell you that the extra piece is not needed. I've often got lots of water in the well, but on more than a quart or so in the cockpit under my most extreme conditions.

eggsuckindog · #5 06-17-2009, 02:50 PM

Starboard would be the choice for me, that is nice. Mine has a removable panel that is full height on like engine box hinges to put it down. I use it very seldom unless offshore as the motor won't tilt up and the dog can't get to the platform - most important LOL

2182 · #6 06-17-2009, 09:53 PM

one of the boats in the for sale section has their console door built like what you are talking about. it would be easier too since there is no real frame to deal with. it also has those "disc closers" i was talking about. the starboard guys are right, i just do interior trim carpentry for a living so am a bit partial to wood on a boat. starboard will wear better and be generally more hassle free over time.