OC17 cockpit layout.

[grundasaurus]

Hi, I was perusing the plans for the OC17 and I noticed that the helm is actually set quite far back from the windshield to accommodate an unusual half berth thingy. I was wondering if it would be possible to move the helm farther forward and make the berth into a storage cubby. Also would it be possible to make a fold up cabin roof that could bolt on for when one wants a roof?
thanks
Liam

[grundasaurus]

Would this be possible, or would it put to much weight forward? Would I be able to counterbalance by moving fuel aft?

[grundasaurus]

Also does anyone know how fast you can a c17 with 60-70hp?

[Cracker Larry]

Sorry you haven't got any replies so I'll try to help, even though I don't know that boat very well. In general you can rearrange any cabin facilities as long as you keep the structural parts in place. You really have a lot of options, just keep the CG where it belongs. If you shift something forward you have to shift something aft to balance it.

Also does anyone know how fast you can a c17 with 60-70hp?

I don't know for sure, but my educated guess tells me 25-30 mph. Probably closer to 25 than 30.

[Rmarsh]

I built a center console version of the C17. I kept the helm position close to where it shows on the plans. I don't think that moving it forward 6-12" would adversely affect the trim or handling. I have a 60 HP Yamaha for power and can get 30 mph, but I'm way more comfortable cruising along at 20-25 mph. Hardly ever use more than 6 gallons of gas per outing.

[Rmarsh]

I added this picture to my gallery, to show where I located my helm.

[terrulian]

Wow, nice work, Rmarsh.
How old is your brightwork? I'm just at about a place when I have to decide on whether to have any. I like it on other people's boats but I have no desire to varnish every year. How did you do it and how much maintenance does it require? Sorry to hijack the thread.

[jacquesmm]

Thank you for replying Larry. I was at a boat builder show in TX and had limited internet access.
For the OP: stay with what Larry's says but yes, you could make a removable hard top.
I would prefer a canvas one but it can be solid.
See the C17, it's the same hull with a small cabin.

[grundasaurus]

So what I meant by moving the controls forward is because as you can see in this image there is still a berth type thing at the front, and i'd rather have more cockpit room, so would it be possible to move the steering station forward so that it is directly behind the windshield?

[grundasaurus]

to counter balance the wight effect I'd move all of the fuel tanks and batteries to the back.