Recessed trolling motor tray install in ZX200 - questions

[gsharum]

My 2006 ZX200 does not have a recessed tray and I want to install one. I found the post on here where the guy supported his deck with 2x4s due to cutting through the main cross member at the front of his deck. I'd really like to install mine as far forward as possible but that means cutting though that support and 4 or 5 more smaller cross members. Here are my questions: 1) I can come back about 5.5" from the graph hole on the bow and install behind the main cross member but will this be too far back to use with the seat? Most factory installs are as far forward as possible. 2) If I do cut through all the cross members (installing as far forward as possible), does the deck need any additional supports or does the tray take care of that once its screwed down? I'm looking at the aluminum Comfort Troll. Thanks

[no land]

I would screw down the pedal where you wanted it and not do all that cutting stuff. my 08 zx200 has the recessed tray and it aint all that.

[JDI]

I have an early 07, same boat as your 06. I installed the same tray in mine about 5 years ago without support , so far no problems. If you would like pictures of the install PM me with an email address.
Pictures
http://s326.photobucket.com/user/jen.../Recess%20Tray

BTW, best thing i have done to the boat and my back!

[blackknife]

it's not an issue, and you would not want it that far back. It was a night & day difference after I did mine, and I didn't do any support, deck is still solid.

There are more install pics if you click on the pic via photobucket

[skeeterJim]

Blackknife, how far back from the carpet edge at the front console did you start your cut for the tray? Do you use your butt seat, and is it comfortable with the recessed tray?

[Newt]

I have an early 07, same boat as your 06. I installed the same tray in mine about 5 years ago without support , so far no problems. If you would like pictures of the install PM me with an email address.
Pictures
http://s326.photobucket.com/user/jen.../Recess%20Tray

BTW, best thing i have done to the boat and my back!

I have an '05 TZX200, it looks to be the same as your ZX200.
I think I need to put this in.
I was concerned about how the cable would fit in, that looks pretty good.

[blackknife]

I don't recall the measurements, maybe 2-3 inches, but it was as close to the front as I could get it. A word of advise, make sure the tray is going in the right direction, and don't make the pattern around the entire lip….it's been done!
I always use my butt seat, and placement of the tray was perfect….it's like second nature now

[riverhawg]

Mine is an 06 and here is my install.

[Gman24]

My 2006 ZX200 does not have a recessed tray and I want to install one. I found the post on here where the guy supported his deck with 2x4s due to cutting through the main cross member at the front of his deck. I'd really like to install mine as far forward as possible but that means cutting though that support and 4 or 5 more smaller cross members. Here are my questions: 1) I can come back about 5.5" from the graph hole on the bow and install behind the main cross member but will this be too far back to use with the seat? Most factory installs are as far forward as possible. 2) If I do cut through all the cross members (installing as far forward as possible), does the deck need any additional supports or does the tray take care of that once its screwed down? I'm looking at the aluminum Comfort Troll. Thanks

I am the one who posted the recess tray pics on the ZX200. If you cut through the cross memeber like I did, I would put the supports in like I did. I did notice a little bit of flex after the tray install the first time I went out. After the supports there is NO FLEX whatsoever. If you don't cut through the front cross member you won't need to. I was like you and wanted mine as far forward because I use a butt seat alot.

[jfdawson]

I recommend you remove the front bow panel and take a digital camera pics and look at them BEFORE you cut. In addition, stick your arm thru the bow panel hole and feel around so you know where the cross beams are located.