Recessed tray in 400 series boats?

[bassin_man]

For those that installed a recessed tray in a 400 series boat. How far forward did you install the tray? Any cross members you had to cut into? Need to install one in my 487 just not sure how far forward I should go.

[greendragon]

I went as far forward as I could go on my 461VS. The hard part is getting the foam out and i cut a hole in the drain tube to drain the trey. I took my time and it took me close to two hours. It sure made a difference on my back. I have since sold the boat.

[tdot_ranger482]

I went forward far as i could before it hit panel
no cross members just deck plywood than foam

[Hoytlifer]

On my 461 I was able to stay back from front trim about 3/4"
that put the tray right inside of the storage compartment. I missed compartment by 3/8"

[Hoytlifer]

No cross members. Just foam. Fein oscillating tool took care of the foam. Easy to shape

[runninrusty]

Did it weaken ur floor. I have a 1997 492 and was told it can’t be dine

[wmitch2]

I used a Die Grinder with a cutting disc after trying a Jig saw and a Roto tool. After cutting the outline, cut an X then use a claw hammer to pry the pieces out. Then use the hammer to dig the foam out. Make SURE you have the outline facing the right before you cut !! (don't ask ! )

[t_ray_g]

I will check on my 487 where I put it tonight.

[Amistad Tackle]

Did it weaken ur floor. I have a 1997 492 and was told it can’t be dine

I put a comfort troll in my 1999 492vs. It’s about 3/4 inch from the front trim. It doesnt weaken the floor, unless the floor is already rotted out. My floor was weak from water penetration, so I cut it out the weak section and replaced. Now solid as a rock with the new tray

[492200hpmerc]

I did my 492vs no problem had to cut just a bit off the wall of middle front compartment

[krindgen]

I went as far forward as I could go on my 461VS. The hard part is getting the foam out and i cut a hole in the drain tube to drain the trey. I took my time and it took me close to two hours. It sure made a difference on my back. I have since sold the boat.

I did the same on a 461. Easy peasy. I made a template out of 1/4in luaun for the tray opening and then "plunge" cut around the edge of the template hole. Just had to clip out the corners with a sawzall. Silicone around the opening and seal the cut edge of the deck around the hole, done.

[grimsbylander]

Where did you guys run the drain hose to? Towards the bow on an angle or straight down?

[Hoytlifer]

I ran mine into the front storage compartment which drains to the hull anyway. My tray ended up tight to that compartment anyway, so I really didn't have a choice