Trundlebug
Well-Known Member
Thought I'd post details of one of my winter projects, if I can get the photo posting process sorted.
Late last year when planning my list of winter projects, I needed to access some of the wiring behind the scenes which is currently inaccessible.
The only way to get at it would be to create an additional access point in the side of the wheelhouse.
I decided to take the opportunity to add an extra cupboard, thereby enabling me to make a large enough access hole to be useful and also add valuable extra storage (no such thing as too much storage).
So, here it is before starting:
The intention being to put and extra cupboard, looking just like the one on the left, between the plug socket and the helm seat.
Although rather tall and narrow it would provide an ideal storage location for the log and boat manuals, currently stored horizontally in the forward cabin, far from ideal.
Here it is, marked up ready for cutting:
It blunted the jig saw blade, but at least was an easy job. After cutting:
On inspecting the hole, it was clear there were some wires towards the top that were going to have to be avoided, but otherwise
plenty of room. Perspective not very clear on a photo, as it looks like everything's in the way, but you can see the bundle of
wires at the top:-
After some deliberation I decided to make the cupboard out of 9mm UPVC from Wickes, with a plastic angle at the front as a retainer.
I used this as it was self coloured, waterproof (not that it needs to be particularly, it's not a wet locker) easy to work with, and reasonable / adequate strength.
Here's the finished box before inserting:
After inserting, but before fixing:
Fits lovely! Here's the view behind the scenes to show how nicely it clears those wires:
This weekend I fitted the door and I have to say I'm rather pleased with the result. Compare the finish with photo #1 above:
Just need to fit the catch now, currently waiting for a 90 degree drill off ebay so I can drill the holes in the side of the box.
Full credit must go to my FIL who made all the bits to such a high standard, "my design his manufacture"
Late last year when planning my list of winter projects, I needed to access some of the wiring behind the scenes which is currently inaccessible.
The only way to get at it would be to create an additional access point in the side of the wheelhouse.
I decided to take the opportunity to add an extra cupboard, thereby enabling me to make a large enough access hole to be useful and also add valuable extra storage (no such thing as too much storage).
So, here it is before starting:
The intention being to put and extra cupboard, looking just like the one on the left, between the plug socket and the helm seat.
Although rather tall and narrow it would provide an ideal storage location for the log and boat manuals, currently stored horizontally in the forward cabin, far from ideal.
Here it is, marked up ready for cutting:
It blunted the jig saw blade, but at least was an easy job. After cutting:
On inspecting the hole, it was clear there were some wires towards the top that were going to have to be avoided, but otherwise
plenty of room. Perspective not very clear on a photo, as it looks like everything's in the way, but you can see the bundle of
wires at the top:-
After some deliberation I decided to make the cupboard out of 9mm UPVC from Wickes, with a plastic angle at the front as a retainer.
I used this as it was self coloured, waterproof (not that it needs to be particularly, it's not a wet locker) easy to work with, and reasonable / adequate strength.
Here's the finished box before inserting:
After inserting, but before fixing:
Fits lovely! Here's the view behind the scenes to show how nicely it clears those wires:
This weekend I fitted the door and I have to say I'm rather pleased with the result. Compare the finish with photo #1 above:
Just need to fit the catch now, currently waiting for a 90 degree drill off ebay so I can drill the holes in the side of the box.
Full credit must go to my FIL who made all the bits to such a high standard, "my design his manufacture"
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