Need to remove helm and companion seats, 2006 Amberjack

[LunaSea290]

Good day all. I've committed myself to replacing both fuel sending units with the "stem" type. In order to have the clearance needed to install them I have to move both the helm and companion seats. I started on the companion seat and found that the screws are bolts. I was able to remove the bolts along the side by removing a speaker and access cover. I have no access that I can see with the ones on the deck. The sound proofing, fuel tank, etc. are in the way. I'm thinking the bolts need to be cut and abandoned and replaced with screws. But before I start cutting bolt heads off I was wondering if anyone has run into this situation or maybe there's another way. Thanks for any help provided.

 

[Lazy Daze]

Not the exact answer you were asking about, but... If the given access to the senders aren't conducive to being able to get the Wema style senders back into the tank, there may be another alternative. While the Wemas can be more accurate, it's not a "night and day" difference and I'd be hard pressed to do any major work just to install that style. I just don't think the ROI is worth it. The traditional style is inepxpensive and should easily last another decade or longer. If you're after more precise fuel usage, the better thing to do would be to install fuel meters such as Floscans or even a style that integrates into your MFD. That would give very precise fuel usage.

 

[LunaSea290]

Thanks for your reply Lazy Daze. I'll take a look at other options. But I just don't understand, what were they thinking when the seats were installed LOL. Why bury the nuts so you can't get to them?

 

[b_arrington]

Thanks for your reply Lazy Daze. I'll take a look at other options. But I just don't understand, what were they thinking when the seats were installed LOL. Why bury the nuts so you can't get to them?

Boats are usually installed as a sandwich, with the internal parts going in place before the top is attached. It’s possible the tank was installed, and the seats installed before the deck was in place. Then they were mated up and attached, thereby hiding the bolts.

 

[Lazy Daze]

Thanks for your reply Lazy Daze. I'll take a look at other options. But I just don't understand, what were they thinking when the seats were installed LOL. Why bury the nuts so you can't get to them?

Yeah, there's a lot going on in 29' of boat. Lot's of systems crammed into a small space. It's just the way it is - some things are easier to get to, but they can't all be easy. You just happen to be working on one those things that isn't so easy. Hey, on some boats, to remove an engine... you cut a hole in the side of the boat!

Aside from cutting a new access hole/deck plate, you could try to reach in there blindly (if there's enough room for a long arm and/or tool setup). You can feel the bolts through the foam and cut it away. Another option is to remove the fuel tank.

 

[LunaSea290]

Hey guys, thanks for all the replies and information. Took the hard way, drilled off the tops of all the bolts, drill 1/8" pilot holes next to all the bolts on the deck, removed seat, drill 1" holes where the 1/8" pilot holes where, filled with epoxy, replaced fuel sender, 5200 old holes, installed seat screwed down with stainless 1/4" x 1 1/4" lags. everything is back together and working. A bit of a pain but it's done. Thanks again for the help.