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Author Topic: converting an Aquasport 281 too a center console  (Read 207 times)

May 12, 2020, 05:41:59 PM
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msteelman

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converting an Aquasport 281 too a center console
« on: May 12, 2020, 05:41:59 PM »
thinking about getting a aqua sport 281 ff and converting to a center console, just looking for any info and input, to what y'all think. do the 281 ff, c, and ccp all have the same hull on outside?

May 12, 2020, 06:13:10 PM
Reply #1

RickK

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Re: converting an Aquasport 281 too a center console
« Reply #1 on: May 12, 2020, 06:13:10 PM »
That is a rare model. I would think that anything '281 is using the same hull. I have seen an Osprey model of 281, there is one circulating around the central west coast of FL.
Here is the Osprey version http://www.classicaquasport.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=12549&title=88-89salesbookpg10-11&cat=764

Here is the sales books we have on the 281 FF and Cabo but have never personally seen one. http://www.classicaquasport.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=12541&title=88-89salesbookpg34-35&cat=764

Cutting into one to convert to an Osprey model is pretty aggressive but you're not the first to do it.  There was a Center Console Cuddy (CCC) made as a couple one-offs. Maybe rethink the flexibility of leaving the cabin portion?
Rick
1971 "170" with 115 Johnson (It's usable but not 100% finished)

1992 230 Explorer with 250 Yamaha

May 15, 2020, 12:43:07 PM
Reply #2

Ulysses485

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Re: converting an Aquasport 281 too a center console
« Reply #2 on: May 15, 2020, 12:43:07 PM »
Just ran across this in the gallery:

http://www.classicaquasport.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=645 

Ulysses
1974' 240 CC - https://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=15975.0
1970’ Flatback 222 - https://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=15666.0
1981’ Osprey 22-2 - https://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=15249.0
1971’ Flatback 222 - SOLD
1972' 240 Seahunter - SOLD

June 05, 2020, 03:59:44 PM
Reply #3

thill

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Re: converting an Aquasport 281 too a center console
« Reply #3 on: June 05, 2020, 03:59:44 PM »
A friend did this with a Trojan, I think.
He cut after the "turn up" and used that as the base for the gunnels.  He laminated wood under neath to make them wider, then flexed a plywood skirt around the interior as the turn down that would support the coaming pads. 

Once that was all solid and strong, he trimmed the turn up section, routed the inside edge, and glassed it all in.    It went faster and looked better than I ever imagined. 

Then he made a front platform using the original bunk area, with storage below, which was relatively easy, and all turned out well.

I never saw in person, but it looked like a success to me. 

My advice is to think very carefully before you cut.  You may be able to build much of the structure before cutting anything, from inside the cabin.  That would be ideal, to prevent excessive spreading and settling. 

It's a lot of work, but I hope it works great for you!
-TH

 

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