Extending the rod lockers Ranger 375V

[Durby]

Has anyone ever extended the rod lockers of a 1988 or similar 375v or similar? The boat is only 17'10" long and can only handle a 6"rod from what I can tell. I am in the process of restoring a 375V and am curious if this can be done.

I thought I ran across a post of someone with a 375 that cut the forward end out of the locker and removed some foam. I was thinking of doing this and then adding a 6" or 8" PVC pipe at the end to keep the tips in tact.

Anyone have any other ideas?

[bassranger1]

I too remember seeing that on here somewhere. I'v thought about it but it sure scares the heck out of me to do it.

[bassranger1]

Found it. This guy cut the end of his rod locker.

http://www.bbcboards.net/zerothread?id=588749

[joeypman]

Ya cut the end out then removed the foam when i installed the recessed tray... it is a little ruff towards the end but rod socks fix that problem.

[Durby]

does that mean you were not able to remove the foam before cutting the floor open for the recessed tray?

[arjone01]

Pics shrunk but here is mine.

http://www.bbcboards.net/zerot...age=4

It will be quite the chore to remove the foam without having better access like you do with a recess cut out. It could be done though, be skinny and have long arms and be patient. I wouldn't advise it though.

[joeypman]

LIke arjones said it is possible but i had to have my arms fully extended and could barely reach with the drill. Good luck

[ZReel]

I drilled a 4 1/2" or 5" ?? hole with a hole saw and used a extension on my cordless drill and drill through the front and then a small piece of exhaust pipe and a shopvac and chipped and sucked all the foam out. I wasn't a bad job. I can get 6 1/2' rods in ok but 7'er's are touchy ? and I use rod covers because there is raw fiberglass exposed in the hole.