1982 Diplomat seat base repair

[Jrdn_368]

I'm tackling an overdue restoration work for my parents' 1982 Checkmate Diplomat I/O and my biggest concern right now is the passenger seat base. It's the swivel chair with an aluminum pedestal, and it bolts into a platform that's clearly seen better days. It's soft and the screws just won't hold. I drilled into it, and it seems like it's fiberglass but it's completely shot.

Anyone else dealt with a similar issue on these older Checkmates? I'm wondering if replacing that whole platform with marine-grade plywood and epoxy would be a viable solution. If so, what's the best way to securely mount a new plywood platform to the boat's floor? I really need to get this seat stable and safe. Any advice would be huge!

 

[Ch3ckmateSkipp3r]

I had to tackle a similar issue on my uncle's old Checkmate, those seat base problems really just won't quit! So, I got my hands dirty, ripping out the old, rotting platform and swapping it out for some sturdy .75″ marine plywood. I sealed it up with epoxy to make sure it's waterproof and then glassed it right to the floor. To top it off, I used stainless tee-nuts for the pedestal bolts beneath, so it's super solid now. Honestly, it should hold up for ages. I can't stress enough how much of a good move that was.

 

[Higily80]

I know a few people who've done the same, trying to keep it looking vintage is one thing, but it's a risk. Upgrade to modern materials and sleep better at night. With that said, I'm curious @Ch3ckmateSkipp3r, did the fiberglass held up bolting down the chairs?

 

[Astra Man]

Soft pedestal mounts are a safety hazard, and patch jobs won't cut it. Rip out the rot, glass in marine-grade ply, and through-bolt with backing plates, anything less is just inviting the seat to rip loose underway

 

[fair.rook]

I'd suggest cutting it to fit very wellover the old platform, then bonding it with a good layer of epoxy and stainless fasteners into solid stringers underneath if you can reach them. Also, bedding the pedestal base with some thickened epoxy or marine adhesive before bolting it down