[YaDude]

Hi guys. I'm looking to build an engine hatch and put a bench seat in the back of my boat. I've searched the forum and only found a little bit of stuff. Anyone have any tips. Like with framing, hinges, and how to set up the actuator.
Thank you
Here's a picture of my Hallett. And a picture of what I would like to do




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[Your Mom]

If everything else is manual on your boat make it like the lower pic with gas shocks an pin locks. Find the right hinge by doing some research. I built a wall in front of engine that slides into a track connected to seats and held in by pin locks with a speaker box. The hatch I built mimics the curve/angle of hull.  Made with plywood an laddered with 1x3 between outside/inside pieces and a 1x4 trimmed to inside hull curves...






This last one is an older pic but the hatch and interior are the same.

[YaDude]

I saw some pictures of your boat on an old post.  Your work came out awesome. 
It looks like your's opens up similar to a tonneau cover on a truck.
I like that idea, it makes things easier than installing an actuator.
Did you put fiberglass on the top?  My fiberglass skills consist of trying it only one time before.
I was thinking of putting a small pad and upholstery so that it is comfortable to lay on.

[Your Mom]

Just on the inside on a few structural areas... Doing the whole thing is pointless. Used 3/8 marine foam on top then vinyl. The scoop is made like a custom speaker box out of a t-shirt an fiberglass then covered in vinyl. Wood was sealed before covering and is strong enough for me (240lbs) to jump on

[chriscab]

That's goona look killer


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[YaDude]

Thanks guys that really helps a lot.  Now i'm able to plan out the process.  Doesn't seem too hard.

[steves86ta]

thanks to Kayotk's pics, i built one for the Bahner and i practically copied his design haha!

I used 3/8" plywood, 2X6 for the front panel, and 2x4 for the rest for the framing. Then resin coated and did a couple sheets of glass. Im pretty sure its fairly bulletproof.

Then had it covered by a guy here in highland for 250!

heres a couple pics

[Your Mom]

Personally...I like the sides and back to sit inside the hull making it more flush.