Storing throw cushions, bumpers, etc..

[djflats58]

Having to down size from a 21' bass boat to a 17 1/2' Alumacraft, I'm having problems with storage. The small paddle, boat bumpers, throw cushion, and 2 life jackets(when not in use)take up a lot of the storage. In the Triton I had I just stored these items in the back compartment where the batteries and gas tank is. It had a tray for these items, keeping them off of the batteries/tank. There's no way that I can see to put a tray in this Alumacraft. Would it be safe to store these items in the battery/gas compartment of the Alumacraft? Just seeing if anyone else has this problem. Thanks. 

 

[WIGuide]

Not knowing which boat you have, and the layout makes it tougher. However, you can purchase a paddle holder and mount it to the inside of the lid of your back storage. I'd suggest not putting the throw cushion in the rear compartment and keep it somewhere more accessible. Life vests probably would fair better stored somewhere else too. Maybe throw them in the truck at the end of the day instead of storing them in the back. 

[djflats58]

I'm mainly referring while on the water. The life jackets aren't a real problem because they're in use if I'm on the water. The bumpers and throw cushion take up a lot of space. Good idea on the paddle. I'll do that today. 

 

Edited February 29, 2016 by djflats58

[Al Wolbach]

I put my throw cushion in a clear plastic bag with a zipper that my wife got somewhere. I think a bed spread came in it originally. I stow it on top of my gas tank and have for years without issue. I'm sure someone on here will call a safety on me but the boat police have not had a problem with it. And you can still throw it in an emergency.

[djflats58]

It would be easy access stored there. I guess my main concern is the battery connections and fuel tank hose..any way the cushion and bumpers could cause any damage? There is no metal in either item. Guess there may be a concern of some connections being knocked loose. I wouldn't think so as tight as they are. I'm open to more input from others. Thanks. 

[WIGuide]

Judging from the pic, I'd say what you're wanting to do is fine in that storage.They shouldn't damage anything, but try to make sure they stay in one place so they aren't sliding around. Aside from that you should be fine. 

[djflats58]

I talked to a guy yesterday and he mentioned the battery boxes that have tops to them. There was probably tops that came with the ones I have but the previous owner probably got rid of them. The lids would protect any connections and also allow proper ventilation.

[ww2farmer]

In my Tracker, that's what the "under the seat" storage is for..........the front deck compartments are for tackle. My boat is not that big, but under the seats are two life jackets, a throwable cushion, the paddle, running lights, spare TM prop, small tool/hardware kit, first aid kit, rain suit, anchor, two lengths of rope, weigh-in bag/cull tags, a package of assorted zip ties, a roll of duct and electrical tape, drift sock, signaling device, extra plug, and a wad of plastic grocery bags for trash.

[djflats58]

14 minutes ago, ww2farmer said:

In my Tracker, that's what the "under the seat" storage is for..........the front deck compartments are for tackle. My boat is not that big, but under the seats are two life jackets, a throwable cushion, the paddle, running lights, spare TM prop, small tool/hardware kit, first aid kit, rain suit, anchor, two lengths of rope, weigh-in bag/cull tags, a package of assorted zip ties, a roll of duct and electrical tape, drift sock, signaling device, extra plug, and a wad of plastic grocery bags for trash.

Of all the boats that have storage under the seats, I have to get one without that storage option. The seats don't lift. I sure wish they did. Thank you though. 

[Al Wolbach]

On March 1, 2016 at 9:16 AM, djflats58 said:

I talked to a guy yesterday and he mentioned the battery boxes that have tops to them. There was probably tops that came with the ones I have but the previous owner probably got rid of them. The lids would protect any connections and also allow proper ventilation.

If the cushions were wet and could slide around they could short out your battery, however dry and immobile you are fine for storage.

[djflats58]

I found a place for the cushion so it's out of the way. The boat bumpers fit in the battery compartment. I slid a divider between the batteries and gas tank. The top of the bumpers slide down between the tank and side of the boat. The bumpers will ride fine now but if I want I can secure them to the divider with a velcro tab.

 

[WIGuide]

23 hours ago, djflats58 said:

Of all the boats that have storage under the seats, I have to get one without that storage option. The seats don't lift. I sure wish they did. Thank you though. 

Maybe you could do a little modification. I'm not sure which model you have, but the piece the seats are mounted to should be it's own piece. If it is, maybe look at adding some hinges to it and hollowing out the foam under it. It might not look as great as factory install, but you could make it pretty decent and gain a lot of space.