Under-deck storage

[Greg J.]

It's been awhile since I've actually posted anything, so thought I'd add something dealing with the Aquamat product. I sold my '05 PT175 about a year ago and bought a new '08 Lowe Roughneck 1652 aluminum rig, before selling the PT175. Under the rear deck there is a good-sized area 30"x26" in front of my batteries that I never used. Got to thinking I could store an extra pfd or small gear bag under there, but didn't want stuff sliding into the batteries.



Fiddled around with ideas, trying to do something that wouldn't involve drilling holes in my rig. A guy on another site recommended using an extendable shower rod (I know it sounds cheap), but I found one of the correct length, it holds tight, plus it's moveable to fit the load. The Aquamat item I ord'd from BPS arrived in the mail the other day and it took me about 15 minutes to trim and install it. Works great and nothing will slide now, plus I'm not putting anything heavy back there. Pic link below.




http://www.tinboats.net/Gallery/albums/userpics/normal_Storage_bay_mat.jpg

 

[Scott Hammer TOXIC]

Great use of dead space. I would have to think you can't get to it while on the water no?



TOXIC

 

[Mini]

I have a similar rod setup on my 520 front storage compartment. Comes from the factory the same way.



The only thing I see bad is that there is acid in those batteries. You have to be aware of that and dont store anything in there that you dont mmind getting eaten by that acid.....I am not saying it is ging to happen, but just be aware to not store clothes or rain gear in there.

 

[Greg J.]

Great use of dead space. I would have to think you can't get to it while on the water no?



TOXIC

Yep, it's accessible, just have to lift up the rear hatch................being careful not to fall over the side in the process, lol.



Mini,



Good point on the battery acid possibilty, one I hadn't thought of. I may have to check into putting the batts in the battery boxes that can be purchased at Walmart. Thanks for the heads-up!



Pic with the hatch open:


http://www.tinboats.net/Gallery/albums/userpics/normal_Stoarge_Bay_hatch_open.JPG