Returning to sailing after many years in power boats, I picked up a Hunter 170 in fairly good shape. Some delamination at the gunwales and only a few small cracks. My wife likes the high boom mounting, which is a big plus. I have been impressed with the quality of the hardware, and lovelovelove the roller furling for the jib.
Something I find lacking is space to stow items that I don't want in the way while sailing: anchor, mooring lines, tools, first aid kit, and the such. This has me thinking about cutting an opening or two to allow to utilize space inside the hull. The plan would include creating covers from Delrin or other appropriate material, secured in a fashion that would ensure a good seal. I would create net enclosures in these spaces to keep things from sliding around, getting lost, or possibly damaging the hull.
After sealing against water, my biggest concern is the effect this might have on the structural integrity of the hull. I have rejected the idea of utilizing space under the main cockpit seats since people will be siting or standing in these areas, both placing stress on them and impeding access.
This leaves the forward cockpit. The two areas I am considering are outlined in green in the attached photo.
So, my questions:
Has anyone else tried this? If so, please share your results.
Which of the areas I am considering might be the least subject to stress?
What is your general impression? Good idea? Maybe could work? Bad idea?
Thanks, and Happy Sailing!
Something I find lacking is space to stow items that I don't want in the way while sailing: anchor, mooring lines, tools, first aid kit, and the such. This has me thinking about cutting an opening or two to allow to utilize space inside the hull. The plan would include creating covers from Delrin or other appropriate material, secured in a fashion that would ensure a good seal. I would create net enclosures in these spaces to keep things from sliding around, getting lost, or possibly damaging the hull.
After sealing against water, my biggest concern is the effect this might have on the structural integrity of the hull. I have rejected the idea of utilizing space under the main cockpit seats since people will be siting or standing in these areas, both placing stress on them and impeding access.
This leaves the forward cockpit. The two areas I am considering are outlined in green in the attached photo.
So, my questions:
Has anyone else tried this? If so, please share your results.
Which of the areas I am considering might be the least subject to stress?
What is your general impression? Good idea? Maybe could work? Bad idea?
Thanks, and Happy Sailing!