2002 Nitro 288 sport console seat base mounting bolts are loose at deck mount

[Thomas Teller]

I have an issue that I'm unsure how to proceed, since time is on my side, I thought of posting this thread. The aluminum base has 4 mounting bolts which have become really loose, the seat's like a recliner chair! I'd like to know any tricks or the procedure to repair this annoying issue. I'm only able to access one bolt under the deck, the other three are not accessible to hold back on in order to tighten the bracket to the deck.

 

[Thomas Teller]

Not having heard from anyone, I thought I'd post again with slightly different criteria. I can reach the two bolts closest to the locker hatch in the deck, but not the other two without removing the section of the deck but perhaps I should simply cut the deck, make the repair and put it back, patch the finished surface with some EVA foam. I've got a bit leftover anyway that worked real fine re-decking the fore and aft fishing/diving platform decks. I've been considering this improvement anyway because it looks trashy due to missing snap-in carpeting and snaps left in place/some missing.

 

[DMcCabe]

I own a 2003 288 Sport and have dealt with the same issue. I feel your pain trying to access those nuts. I ended up using a long pair of ViseGrip pliers to luckily grab the nut to prevent it from turning. It was extremely challenging. I'm not sure my lower back has recovered yet. Be careful how much you tighten them down, though. The deck under that base ultimately cracked to the point that the seat wasn't safe. The base was close to ripping loose. My solution was to cut a couple of pressure treated 2x6 pieces and wedge them under the seat effectively locking the seat in place but providing a lot more strength and stability to the drivers seat. The only other option is a complete deck replacement and I'm not ready to go there yet. Good luck with your project.