I have tried moving batteries forward without much success. I probably did not use big enough wire. I would envision having the oil tanks and batteries under the aft deck. They work very well back there. Lowering the aft deck and shortening it would work great for a single application or even for twins if it is a family boat. The club boats need a very strong pylon, and this design would compromise that unless external bracing is used. That would work for me also. The access door would work or even hinge the panel itself would be simple. I did not think my thoughts on this design would be this interesting for the rest of you. jim
It's all tinkering with something we all like to tinker with. Why wouldn't we get interested in it? Especially this time of year!
I don't like windshields, so I would not put one on. I like the 360 degree visibility you get with no windshield. Plus 360's around are easier. A windshield like the 18's used would be fairly easy to fabricate. jim
There are certain aspects of the 18' classic that I adore. The low profile and the front deck with it's angled instrument panel have always given the 18 a VERY COOL look (I personally never cared much for the factory windshield on the 18). This classic look incorporated onto a 20' hull with wrap around seating would be slick. Twins on the back are my favorite but most likely wouldn't be practical for family use. I personally would opt for keeping the stronger pylon as standard equipment. Looking forward to seeing the "drawings". Kevin
If you are a big strong slalom skier, there is a case for a forward mounted pylon for better tracking. Multiple fins would also help this situation. If you allow yourself to think about custom made parts, then the pylon could be any thing you want. I looked everywhere for a specific stereo cabinet that I wanted a few years ago. It had to fit under a window. I never did find one in a store, so I visited a custom cabinet maker. He made exactly what I wanted and it did not cost any more than the "store bought" ones!! It even had a pull out drawer for my turntable. jim
