Operating an inflatable vessel without basic comforts quickly turns into a test of endurance, especially when crossing long distances or fishing on the current. Wind, splashing and the constant need to keep the rummel in a tense position significantly reduces the pleasure of the process. console-boat This is the first serious step in tuning for many water-engines who want to improve the level of comfort and safety.
The steering column allows not only conveniently positioning the instruments, but also freeing up space in the cockpit, as well as securing the hinged transom or gas tank more reliably. steering-system Even in low-cost models of inflatable boats without complex refitting, in this article we will discuss in detail the materials, fastening methods and nuances of installation, so that your boat becomes a real boat.
Before you start purchasing materials, you need to clearly understand what exactly the function will perform this node. sounder What about a gas tank or a full-fledged remote control with the ability to install windscreens? The choice of design and the cost of the project depends on the answer.
Choosing the optimal design and materials
The basis of any stationary console is a support frame, which should have high strength and minimal weight. plywoodAluminum profiles and sheets are popular, but require metal skills and a special tool for flexible or welding.
When choosing plywood, it is critical to pay attention to the marking: only material with an index of FSF or FC is suitable for the aquatic environment, but must be treated with moisture impregnation. The use of conventional construction plywood will lead to delamination after the first season of active operation. Composite materials fiberglass and fiberglass are a premium option, providing an ideal appearance and absolute water resistance, but their manufacture requires the creation of a matrix or complex modeling.
⚠️ Warning: Never use chipboard or MDF to make water-contact elements, and even the best paint will not save these materials from swelling when moisture enters through microcracks.
The design of the future design should take into account the ergonomics of the particular vessel. Too high can interfere with the view or sail in the wind, and too low will make the control uncomfortable. The optimal height of the steering wheel is selected individually, but it is usually 30-40 cm from the floor of the cockpit.
Necessary tools and components
To do the right thing, you need not only the will to install the steering column, but you also need a specific set of tools, you don't need an electric jigsaw with a saw for clean cutting, a drill and a set of drills for wood and metal, you also need grinding nozzles, brushes for applying varnish and a measuring tool.
Special attention should be given fixing-pieceAll bolts, nuts and washers must be made of stainless steel grade AISI 304 or AISI 316. Conventional black or galvanized fasteners in salty or just river water will begin to rust very quickly, which can lead to the destruction of the structure at the most inopportune moment.
- 🛠️ An electrolobzik or circular saw for cutting sheet materials.
- 🔩 A set of drills on wood, metal and feather drills for holes for wiring.
- 🧪 Polyurethane-based sealant (e.g., Sikaflex or analogues) for sealing the seams.
- 📏 Roulette, coal and marker for accurate marking of parts.
The steering system is an important component, and PVC boats are most commonly used with cable systems. SSC62 Or they're analogues, because they're compact and easy to assemble, and hydraulic steering is on powerful motors, but it requires more space and more complex laying of highways.
☑️ Preparation for installation
Manufacture of the console body DIY
The process of creating a case begins with detailed markings on a sheet of plywood. You need to move the dimensions from the drawing, given the thickness of the material and the processing tolerances, you should cut the plywood slowly, so as not to damage the top decorative layer and avoid chipping, which then have to be put on for a long time.
After cutting out all the details, the ends must be carefully ground and impregnated with olifu or special soil in several layers. criticalityBecause it's through the open pores at the ends of the sheet that moisture penetrates the most quickly, the number of layers of impregnation depends on the porosity of the wood, but usually 3-4 application with intermediate drying is required.
The frame is assembled on stainless steel screws with pre-drill holes under them, all joints of the panels must be coated with a sealant before being pulled together, which creates an additional barrier to water and increases the rigidity of the structure, turning individual sheets into a monolith.
⚠️ Attention: When building the frame, watch the diagonals of the structure. A skew even a few millimeters can cause the steering shaft to not fit into the bearings or bulkheads to fall into the slots.
To strengthen the structure, internal bulkheads or aluminum corners at the corners of the joints are often used, this is especially true if a heavy battery or a large tank is planned to be installed on the console. Aluminum profile It can also serve as a edging for the ends, protecting them from mechanical damage.
Secrets of plywood processing
Many craftsmen use epoxy resin with a fabric glass mesh to paste the ends and corners, which creates an "armor" that is completely waterproof and very shock resistant.
Installation of steering and instrumentation
The steering machine and steering wheel require precision; the hole under the steering column shaft must be perfectly round, without distortion, so that the shaft rotates freely, without jamming. Special oil shaft assemblies or homemade rubber cuffs are often used to seal the exit shaft.
The attachment of the console itself to a cylinder or floorboard is a separate story. In inflatable boats, you can't just fasten the structure to the floor. You use special attachment systems to stringers or transom bars. Often the console is fixed with belts through special rings on cylinders or rests on special pockets, if they are provided by the design of the boat.
The front panels are tachometers, temperature indicators, voltmeters and navigation screens, and they have holes of the appropriate diameter cut out to fit them, and it's important to make sure that the wires from the instruments pass freely inside the housing to the power source.
| Component | Type of attachment | fastener material | Hermetization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering machine | 4 M6 bolts | Nerzh. steel AISI 316 | Silicone sealant |
| strum | The nut on the shaft | Brass/Stainless steel | Not required |
| The dashboard. | Screws complete | Nerzh. | Rubber pads |
| ACB (inside) | Belt/Velcro | Plastic/Textile | Not required |
Don't forget the installation. gas-lineIt should be smooth, without any clamping, and if the console is blocking access to the engine, make sure that the cables (steering and gas) are long enough to fully run the ramper and open the throttle.
Put the wiring inside the console in advance, using a corrugated tube, which will protect the wires from rubbing against the edges of the holes and make it easier to replace the devices in the future.
Protection from moisture and finishing
After assembly and testing of functionality, the finishing stage begins, which determines the durability of the product. Even the best quality marine plywood requires protection. The best option is to paint with yacht varnish in several layers or use two-component epoxy enamels.
Each layer of varnish or paint must be applied after drying the previous and easy grinding of the surface with fine-grained sandpaper, which ensures perfect adhesion and smoothness of the coating. Pay special attention to the angles and entry points of the fastener - there the protection should be maximum.
The interior of the console, where the battery is stored and the wires are laid, is also desirable to treat with a moisture-repellent composition. The dampness inside the closed volume can lead to oxidation of contacts and failure of electronics. You can use special aerosols-moisture dislodging.
- 🎨 Degreasing the surface before painting for better grip.
- 🖌️ Applying soil over wood or epoxy primer.
- ✨ Coating with 2-3 layers of yacht lacquer or polyurethane paint.
- 🔍 Control the absence of bubbles and subtrems after drying.
The aesthetic look of the console can be improved by pasting the sides with a self-adhesive film under carbon or wood, or by installing decorative stainless steel linings, which is not only beautiful, but also adds an additional layer of protection against ultraviolet light and scratches.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use nitro paints and conventional varnishes for internal work. They do not have the necessary elasticity and when vibrating on the water, they will quickly become covered with a network of cracks, starting the process of decay of the tree.
Operation and care of installed console
Proper maintenance of the console will extend its life for many years, and after each trip to the water, especially if you swim in salt water or in the rain, it is advisable to rinse the structure with fresh water, which will wash away the salt and dirt that can destroy the lacquer coating.
Check the condition of the fasteners regularly. Vibration from the engine can weaken the nuts and screws. Once a season, it is recommended to stretch all connections and lubricate the moving parts of the steering mechanism with a special lubricant that is resistant to washing out with water.
If you notice a varnish chip or scratch to the tree, don't delay repairs. Stick the damage with tape, skin the edges and apply locally the varnish or paint. Timely elimination of minor damage to the coating prevents moisture from entering the plywood structure, which is the main reason for the failure of the console.
In winter, it is better to remove the console from the boat and store it in a dry room at room temperature. The sharp temperature changes and humidity in an unheated garage can adversely affect the adhesive seams and lacquer coating.
The main secret of durability is not so much the material as the quality of its primary processing and regular monitoring of the integrity of the protective coating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a console on a boat without a hard floor (floorboard)?
Yes, it's possible, but the design will be different. In air deck boats, the console is usually attached to a transom board and is additionally secured with belts to the rings on the cylinders. It is important to ensure stability so that the console does not fall down when rolling.
What thickness is plywood best used for manufacturing?
The optimum thickness of marine plywood for consoles in PVC boats up to 4 meters in length is 8-10 mm. For larger vessels or if heavy equipment is planned, the thickness can be increased to 12 mm, but this will add extra weight.
Do I need to make water drain holes at the bottom of the console?
In the bottom panel or in corners near the floor, 2-3 drainage holes with a diameter of 5-8 mm should be drilled, which will allow water that gets inside (from rain or splash) to flow freely, preventing stagnation and rotting.
Will the installation of the console affect the speed of the boat?
Yes, any additional design creates sailing and water resistance, but with proper design (sleek shapes, minimum height), the impact on speed and fuel consumption will be minimal and almost invisible to the eye.