Is this a good idea?

A

aholst1

Member
exMember
Joined
Apr 20, 2006
RO Number
20936
Messages
446
and no, it doesn't start with, "Hey Bubba, watch this..."
I have a '89 Santego 2767. It is the almost PERFECT boat for our boating habit. Here's the problem - access to the fore deck sucks as I and the Admiral get a little older. Especially tough with no windlass. As a project, I am considering cutting a walk-thru from the bridge to the fore-deck, sligtly port of centerline. I would actually get more storage space out of the deal and can use a majority of my existing hardware in the project. Are there any structural issues I need to be aware of? After inspecting what I would be cutting, I think the finished product will give more support than what is there now.
 
I have an 88 and have thought about it also. Only stuff in that space now is my canvas. Let me know if you go ahead. I've got other projects to finish first.
 
I would love to hear about your findings! I know the boat is different, but I am looking at a couple of 3067 santegos that I really like. The 1989 is in much better condition but the only downside is the fact that I would really prefer the walkthrough that came about in 90 or 91 (a radar arch would be nice also!).

Best of luck!
 
I did something similar on an old 2895 Mariner from the '70s - put some access hatches in so I could store stuff in all that wasted space on the front of the flybridge. I miss having that on my 2896...

On the 2757, I would be wary of weakening the flybridge structure too much - definitely research what you are getting into before starting the project- maybe have someone who knows a lot about fiberglass take a look at it if you can. Just to be sure...
 
I looked at mine again today. If you put a small walk-thru in the middle I don't think you would weaken anything. In fact by adding the two support walls on each side of the cut out I think you would actually make the flybridge stronger. As it is right now it's just a big storage hole with no center support. Frame it up and add an access door on each side for storage and I think it is a project that could be done rather easily actually. As long as you don't mind cutting up your flybridge that is and of course have the skills to do it. I'm good on framing but I would have to brush up on my fiberglass skills. Hmmmm, it's now on my list, but way down there.
 
Top,
I was thinking a bit off center to port due to the salon hatch. I agree with you; it appears re-framing after cutting would provide more support than what is there. With Pete's words of caution I think I will check with a fiberglass guy before the first cut...If this project works out, I may even stop looking at the 34 / 38 / 380 Santegos with the factory walk-thru.
 
I thought of that to but just removing the small center section of windscreen sure would save some windscreen fabrication. Perhaps some type of fold down step that would land beyond the hatch edge. I'm heading to the lake tomorrow and will look at it more. Be interesting to hear what a fiberglass guy thinks.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top