Enlargement of entrance to V berth on CD 25

thataway

Has anyone cut away the port side of the entrance to the V Berth on the CD 25?

The 25 seems to about about 2" more diagnal sleeping room more than the 22, but it is still a bit "cramped" for some of us over 70 to get in and out of the "door". We find that the large entrance of the TC 255 is easy to get in and out of the bunk, plus with a cushion on the floor in front of the navigators (port side) seat, one has 6' 4" directly fore and aft.

It seems that this area could be safely cut away on the 25 without causing any structureal weaking. Anyone done it? If so, how does it work out?

We will probably be doing this--unless some one has a good reason why we shouldn't. We may glass this bulkhead to the side of the hull (as it is in the TC 255), and re-inforce it--plus put a "crash bar" for the navigator to hang on too.

DaveS

thataway · Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2007 9:56 am Post subject:

Thanks, Dave,
I have sent him an E mail..I appreciate the information.

SeaSpray · Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2007 10:09 am Post subject:

Bob,
If there are any pics can you post them.

Steve

Ron on Meander · Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2007 11:44 am Post subject:

Bob,
Glad you mentioned that idea. I've been considering it since we bought Meander. Its on my "to do" list. I can't see that the bulk head addes any structural strenght as it is just pop riveting to the celing in the v-berth. An even better way would be to enlarge the opening and raise the dash area above the enlarged opening but thats a bit beyond my skills. Looking forward to hearing your ideas on how to do it.
Ron

DaveS · Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2007 11:28 am Post subject:

I'm bringing this "thread" up to the top as there have been recent questions about this modification.

Bob ("Thataway").....did you ever obtain a response from John ("Farwest II") re: his modification?

Sea Wolf · Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2007 11:36 am Post subject:

In order to retain the resale value of the boat as much as possible, I'd consider cutting out the area and then installing hardware in such a manner that the cutout could be inserted and removed easily depending on the varying needs of the occupants.

Could it be cut out and split in such a way as to simply have it fold up and aside out of the way?

Just a thought!

Joe.

DaveS · Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2007 4:46 pm Post subject:

Byrdman · Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2007 5:06 pm Post subject:

Go for it Bob.

This was one of the things I brought up to Jeff when they had 1st came back out with the CD25.

Indications at that time were they had it there to provide more privacy.... but I agree with others, and like/liked the open area on my 16 Cruiser, my TC24, and my 18 Angler. I think for most of us who use the boats for more than a day boat and do travel, the open area would greatly
increase the ease of use, Thumbs Up

better sleeping options, Thumbs Up

less arobics getting in and out, Thumbs Up

(at our ages anyway)
and simply more open. Thumbs Up

If you want privacy....drop down a towel or piece of sunbrella. Moon

Great idea about the hold that bar Bob.

Do I hear that saw's-all running?

Jazzmanic · Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2007 5:29 pm Post subject:

Funny you should mention that.

C-WEED · Posted: Fri Jun 29, 2007 2:16 pm Post subject:

I recommended that mod to the guy, Chris on the expedition up North. With all that gear aboard the extra crawling around room would be welcome. He was concerned about resale value and passed on the idea. I have often thought about it and just haven't got the nerve to buzz up that panel yet. But having the extra room has got to make for a more open, spacious, useable boat. Just look at the room in the CD-16. Plus the Wallace MIGHT heat a tad better up front...