The organization of the interior space of an inflatable vessel is not just a matter of aesthetics, but a necessity for comfortable fishing or resting on the water. Table in PVC boat on lyctross It's one of the most popular solutions for mounting a countertop on a transom or onboard arc, and it frees up the cockpit, allows you to conveniently place your gear, sonar or personal items without taking up valuable space on the floor.
The main feature of this type of furniture is the way it is attached: it does not require drilling cylinders or gluing additional elements, everything is supported by a system of liktros – strong cables stretched along the sides, which are an integral part of the design of most modern inflatable boats. Installation of such a table It takes minutes, and dismantling allows you to quickly return the boat to its original appearance for rafting or transportation.
In this article, we will discuss in detail what are the designs of tables, how to make them yourself from available materials and what to pay attention to when buying a finished product. centre-upAnd get step-by-step instructions for assembling a reliable mounting node.
Design features and types of tables on lyctros
All table models attached to the lyctross can be divided into two large groups by type of fixation and arrangement. squirrelThese are attached directly to the transax arches (litros) located in the aft section, and are ideal for the installation of sonars, spinning holders or as a snacking place, as they are in close proximity to the motor and rower.
The second group is side-tableThese are often L-shaped or attached to remote brackets, which allow the central part of the cockpit to be unloaded, which is especially true in small boats, where every centimeter of land is worth its weight in gold.
- 🔹 Monolithic countertops made of plywood or composite are characterized by high strength, but have more weight.
- 🔹 Folding structures made of aluminum are lightweight, easy to transport, but can bend under heavy load.
- 🔹 Combined options with a plastic top and a metal frame - the optimal balance of price and quality.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing a design, remember that mounting exclusively to lyctros has a strength limit. Do not overload the table with heavy loads, since with a strong jerk, the cable can shift or damage the boat's valve system.
The important element is the fixation mechanism itself, and most often, special brackets with slots that are worn on the arc, or clamps with a screw puff, are used. Aluminum profile In such systems, steel is preferable, since it is not susceptible to corrosion in salt water and is much easier.
Materials for making DIY
If you decide to make PVC-board The tabletop must not only be strong, but also resistant to moisture, ultraviolet light and mechanical damage, the most popular option is moisture-resistant plywood (FSF grades), coated with varnish or fiberglass, but it can be overweight for small boats.
A more modern solution is to use composite It's lighter than wood, it doesn't rot, it doesn't require a lot of maintenance, it's best to use stainless steel or anodized aluminum for the frame and fasteners, and it's very easy to rust very quickly, even if it's painted, because the microcracks in the paint are inevitable to come in the process of active use.
To fasten the countertop to the arcs of lyctross, furniture bolts with wide hats or special clamps are often used. Fastening elements They should have a smooth surface so that they don't damage the PVC fabric in accidental contact, and any sharp edges should be carefully treated with a file or grinded.
When working with wood, be sure to use yacht impregnation or special varnishes for external work. This will protect the material from swelling and stratification. If you use metal, make sure that all compounds are sealed so that water does not get inside the hollow profiles, which could lead to freezing and rupture in winter.
Instructions for installing a table on transom arcs
Installing the table on the squirrel arcs is the most common option. The process requires care so as not to damage the inflatable elements. First, you need to determine the optimal height and angle of inclination of the countertop, it should not interfere with the control of the motor or rowing.
Then you need to attach the brackets to the arcs. If you're using a pre-made kit, follow the manufacturer's instructions. If you're making the fastener yourself, make sure it sits tightly on the arc and doesn't slip off when the boat rolls. Often, rubber pads are used between the metal and the boat fabric to prevent friction.
☑️ Pre-installing check
Once the brackets are installed, the countertop is mounted on them, and it's important to check the stability of the structure: it should not stagger when you touch it. If the countertop is removable, provide a safety rope so that when it is overboard, it will not be washed overboard. Fixation It should be reliable, but it allows you to quickly remove the table if necessary.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Table height | 20-30cm from the seat | For comfortable sitting |
| Maximum loading | Up to 10-15 kg | Depends on the thickness of the arc. |
| fastener material | AISI 304 Stainless Steel | Corrosion protection |
| Structure weight | Not more than 2-3 kg | To maintain stability |
Security and burden-sharing
Safety on the water is priority number one, and installing any additional equipment, including a table, changes the center of gravity of the craft. transom overload It can cause the stern of the boat to become too submerged, especially if you have a powerful motor, which increases the risk of being overwhelmed by a wave over the side.
It is not recommended to place heavy batteries or toolboxes on such a table. The main purpose of the design is to place light tackles, a thermos, a navigator or a phone. If you need to install heavy equipment, it is better to use stationary mounts to the floor or banks, which are designed for heavy loads.
⚠️ Attention: Never lean all your weight on a table mounted on a lyctross. Lyctros is a tension element, not a load-bearing structure for a person. Sharp pressure can lead to arc deformation or tissue rupture at the attachment site.
Also consider sailing: a large table set high can act as a sail in strong lateral winds, which makes it difficult to control the boat. In windy weather, heavy objects are better removed from the surface, and ideally, dismantle the table itself if it is removable.
Care at the table and fastening elements
Operating in aquatic environments, often with salt or harsh chemicals (fuel, oil), requires regular maintenance. After every fishing or walk, the metal elements must be wiped with fresh water and wiped dry, which will prevent corrosion and oxides that can stain the boat's clothes or fabric.
Wooden countertops should be periodically inspected for swelling or cracks in the lacquer coating, and if defects are detected, the site should be cleaned and covered with a new layer of protection. Rubber seals And the gaskets lose their elasticity over time, and they need to be changed as needed so that the metal doesn't rub against PVC.
How to keep a table in winter?
Store the table in the PVC boat in a dry room at room temperature. If the tabletop is wooden, do not put heavy objects on it to avoid deformation. Metal parts can be slightly lubricated with silicone grease for preservation. Stack the structure so that sharp corners do not damage the fabric of the boat when stored together.
Regularly check the status of the lyctroses themselves in the contact areas with the table mounts. The cable should not have rubbing or breaks of threads. If you notice that the cable has begun to "crack", this is a signal to replace or repair the tension system.
Alternative fastening options and upgrades
If the standard lyctros mount is not suitable for you or the boat design does not allow you to use it, there are alternatives, such as suction tables (for hard-bottomed boats) or mounting on cans (seats), but the lyctros option remains the most versatile for classic inflatable boats without a hard floor.
Many anglers upgrade their tables by adding cupholders, smartphone fixtures, or small-time arrangers, and this can be done with screws or glue designed for plastic and wood, and the key is to keep the boat sealed when it is reworked.
Use an anti-slip mat on the table surface, which will prevent the phone or sonar from slipping off when rolling, and you won't have to catch your gadgets in the water.
In conclusion, lyctross-table It's a great way to improve your fishing comfort, and with the right materials and safety, it will last for years, making your trips to the water more enjoyable and organized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I set a table on the lyctross, if the boat without transom arcs?
No, a classic lyctross table requires rigid arcs (transe or side) that it relies on, and if you don't have them in your boat, you'll have to look for alternative solutions, such as tables that are mounted on inflatable tubes through special areas or on cans-seats.
Will this table stand a laptop or tablet?
Yes, modern aluminum and composite designs can easily withstand the weight of a laptop (1.5-2.5 kg), the main thing is that the mount to the arcs is reliable and the table does not stagger, as vibration can damage the electronics.
Do I need to lower the boat to set up a table?
Most of the time, no. The table is mounted on a pumped boat, the lyctross arches are in a pumped state, and the installation takes 2-3 minutes, but the first installation of the brackets is more convenient to do on the shore before launching.
What if the lyctross sags?
If the lyctross sags, the table is not possible or will be unstable. You need to first tighten the cable. Most boats have a system for adjusting the tension of the lyctross through special nodes in the bow and aft parts.
The lyctross table is a balance between comfort and safety: do not overload the structure and regularly check the condition of the cables.