Modern inflatable vessels are often perceived by fishermen as a temporary solution, but a competent approach to their modernization can turn a standard model into a full-fledged fishing boat. Refining the PVC boat It eliminates factory defects, improves water stability and creates an ergonomic space for placing gear, and many owners of even budget models after quality tuning get comfort comparable to expensive specialized vessels.
The main goal of the upgrade is not only aesthetics, but also safety and functionality. Properly installed controls, reliable engine fixation and a sophisticated storage system dramatically change the perception of fishing. In this article, we will discuss the key steps in turning an ordinary inflatable boat into an effective tool for trophy mining using available materials and tools.
Analysis of initial design and planning of work
Before starting to purchase materials and drill holes, you need to make a thorough defect of the standard equipment. squirt-board These are low-quality plywood, and the slings that hold the cans are not reinforced, and these are the weak points that become the points of failure in heavy use or in high-stress environments, and your job is to identify all the potentially dangerous areas.
Particular attention should be paid to the state of cylinders Often the factory liners or mounts for oars are inconveniently located, which leads to rubbing of the PVC fabric. Planning should include not only the installation of new equipment, but also the protection of existing components from wear. It is recommended to draw up a detailed diagram indicating the places of installation of additional mounts, so as not to disturb the tightness and balance of the vessel.
⚠️ Attention: Any changes in design related to the gluing of additional overlays or the change in the geometry of the transom may affect the load capacity and buoyancy.
It is important to understand the difference between models NDMA In the first case, the bottom is a load-bearing element, and any manipulation of its rigidity requires special care. In the second case, a metal or plywood floorboard allows you to more freely attach various devices, but adds total weight. Work planning The type of bottom should be considered, as the methods of fastening will differ.
Enhancing the transence and upgrading the suspension device
Tranza is the heart of a motorboat, taking on maximum loads during plane. Standard squirrel board is often made of multi-layer plywood, which over time gains moisture and loses strength. Tranx reinforcement is a priority, especially if you plan to install a motor with a capacity of more than 5 hp For this purpose, you can glue an additional layer of moisture-resistant plywood over the factory board or use composite materials.
The critical thing is to protect the edges of the transom board from water. Even the microscopic chips of the paint coating eventually lead to the decomposition of wood. Use epoxy glue and fiberglass to create a reliable waterproofing shell. transom-wheelThis will greatly simplify the transportation of heavy motors along the coast.
- 🛠️ Replacement of regular bolts with stainless steel brand
A4 (316)To prevent corrosion in salt water. - 🛠️ Installation of additional textolite linings in the places of fastening of the motor for the distribution of point loads.
- 🛠️ Plugging the corners of the transom with reinforcing tape to prevent the formation of cracks when hitting a wave.
Keep in mind the ergonomics of the controls. The regular romples are often short or uncomfortable, and the refinement may involve the installation of an elongated handle or adapter for more accurate control of the course. Upgrade of the suspension device It also involves checking whether the board itself is securely attached to the cylinders, so if the regular pockets look flimsy, it makes sense to stick additional PVC reinforcement tapes.
Organization of the working space and installation of fasteners
Comfortable fishing is impossible without properly organized space. Chaotically scattered gear, anchor and life jacket not only interfere, but can cause an emergency. Creating specialized storage spaces is a key step in tuning. First, identify areas of activity: where you will sit, where you will place a cage, where you will attach the sonar. Fixing system It should be modular to quickly free up space if necessary.
The best solution is to use aluminum profiles or pipes attached to the sides, which can be hung with rod holders, shelves for trifles and even tables. It is important to use materials that are not susceptible to corrosion, such as: stainless steel The fasteners shall not have sharp edges capable of damaging cylinders when they are moved carelessly.
| Element | fabrication | Mounting method | Load (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The rod-holder | Nerzh. steel AISI 304 | On glue + bolts (through) | 5-10 |
| A sonar shelf | Aluminum profile | Flying belts/Velcro straps | 3-5 |
| anchor bracket | Powder-coloured steel | To the transom board | 15-20 |
| Tank fastening | ABS plastic | Velcro tapes + belts | 10-15 |
Special attention should be paid to the fixation of the fuel tank, which should not move freely on the bottom of the boat, creating a risk of damage to valves or hoses, use special platforms with cells or reliable belts with quick-removal fasteners. Organization of the working space It also implies the presence of dry sealants for documents, telephones and keys, which must be securely secured in an accessible but spray-proof place.
Installation of navigation equipment and electronics
Modern fishing is hard to imagine without a sonar, GPS or radio. Inflatable boat electronics have their own vibration and humidity features. The first step is to choose the location of the display. It should be clearly visible to the steering wheel, but not interfere with the control of the motor. The best way to attach the screens is to use brackets with the ability to quickly remove the equipment to take home after fishing.
The cables must be carefully laid, not on the floor where they can be accidentally cut or stepped, but use corrugated tubes and plastic cable channels attached along the sides. Electrical wiring It should be protected from water, all connections are made using shrink tubes and filled with sealant, it is recommended to install a common mass switch ("button") to shut down the system when it is down.
⚠️ Attention: When installing the sonar sensor on the transom, make sure that it does not fall into the zone of the air bubbles from under the screw, otherwise the readings of the device will be distorted.
The appliances often require a separate battery, which should be placed as low as possible and in the center of the diametric plane to maintain the balance of the boat. Affixing equipment Use airtight battery boxes that also serve as seats or supports. Be sure to provide ventilation for the battery compartment if a lead-acid battery is used.
Improved comfort: seats, awnings and protection
Prolonged exposure to uncomfortable positions can ruin any fishing trip, and regular inflatable seats often do not provide proper back support. Refining the boat And in this direction, you start by mounting rigid seats on aluminum frames or wooden bases that are covered with soft material, and it's important that the seat supports are supported by cylinders through wide areas so that you don't put a point pressure on the fabric.
Sun and rain protection is another aspect of comfort: a light awning or umbrella makes it much easier to stay on the water on a hot day; a design that is collapsible and does not sail in the wind; Spray protection can be provided with special spoiler shields installed in front of the transom, which remove water dust from the fisherman.
- ☂️ Use of tissues
Oxfordwith a PU coating for sewing awnings, as they are light and do not absorb water. - ☂️ Installation of anti-slip coating (EVA mats) on floorboard for safe movement in the boat.
- ☂️ Installation of suspended organizers on the sides for small fishing trifles.
Don't forget about it. heat-insulationWhen fishing in the cold season, the inflatable sides and bottom can become colder, using special thermal covers or insulating mats will help keep the body warm, Comfort is made up of small things: cup holders, phone holders, soft head restraints - all of this can be implemented independently at minimal cost.
Materials and tools for quality tuning
The success of the whole operation depends on the correct choice of materials. The savings on glue or fabric can lead to the fact that all the improvements will fall off on the first fishing. The main material for strengthening and lining is reinforced PVC fabric with a density of at least 650 g / sq.m. The adhesive must be a two-component polyurethane, designed specifically for gluing PVC.
Metal elements require careful selection. Aluminum is easy to use, but it's afraid of galvanic corrosion when it comes in contact with other metals. Stainless steel is strong but heavy. Tuning tools should include not only a drill and screwdriver, but also specialized rolling rollers for glue, hair dryers for heating fabric and sharp scissors.
☑️ Materials required
It is important to prepare the workplace. The gluing must be done at a temperature of not less than 15 ° C and at humidity of not more than 75%, and dust and dirt are the main enemies of quality gluing. The gluing temperature should be strictly in the range of 18-25 ° C, otherwise the polymerization of the glue will be incorrect, and the seam will be weak. Before starting work, be sure to practice on tissue trimmings to understand the behavior of materials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the engine power be increased after the transom is strengthened?
The reinforcement of the trans mantra increases its reliability and durability, but does not change the design limitations of the boat itself, as defined by the manufacturer (load capacity, bottom area). Exceeding the recommended power of the engine can lead to the tipping of the boat or the destruction of the seams of cylinders due to increased load on the vortex flows. Power can only be increased within the limits specified in the boat's passport, even if the transman seems very strong.
Which glue is better to use to glue PVC to plywood?
For PVC fabrics to be connected to wooden or metal surfaces, two-component polyurethane adhesives (e.g., 88-NP hardener or specialized adhesives of the type) are best suited. Texacol or KlejpurThey create an elastic seam that withstands strains and temperature changes, unlike epoxy resins, which can crack when vibrating.
Do I need to remove the inflating from the cylinders before gluing the linings?
Yes, it's a requirement. The surfaces to be glued together must be tightly pressed together. If the boat is inflated, the fabric will be pulled, and when the air is deflated, the seam will disperse or deform. Once glued and the glue is completely polymerized (usually 24 to 72 hours), the boat can be inflated.
How often should the reliability of installed mounts be checked?
All screw joints, especially those subject to vibration (motor holders, sonar brackets) should be checked before each trip to the water. Adhesive joints (layers, reinforcements) are sufficient to be visually inspected once a season for detachment or bloating. Regular monitoring will prevent the loss of expensive equipment on the water.