Built in baitwell

[htillman]

Does removing the built-in baitwell in the transom on a 23' Sceptre structurally change the boat. I am restoring a 23' 1977 Seacraft and had planned to remove the baitwell with the exception of the fibreglass that mounts to the transom. I was told that it was not recommended to remove the baitwell. I had to cut it in two when I removed the top cap and was going to leave it out. What is the best thing to do here?

[bigeasy1]

Is it an outboard or I/O ?
I'm doing a 74 Tsunami, I/O, and i have cut out both of the bait wells on the transom cap.
I don't see how this will affect the structural strength of the boat in any way.

I'm glassing over the cutouts,as i'm strictly a salmon troller,using downriggers,and have no need for the baitwells.
As for strength,the cap is pretty well built as it is,however,i laid up several layers of glass on the underside.I actually can stand on it and jump on it without it flexing,and i haven't even glassed up the cutouts yet.

[1bayouboy]

The in floor baitwell and the in floor storage boxes both
providing connection point for the two sides of the liner.
I have an I/O Tsunami and removed the livewell (the storage had already been cutout for fuel tank space) I plan to add some cross members over partial bulkheads at a couple of points to give some added strength.

[htillman]

It is an outboard and I really would like to get rid of the baitwell or at least modify it. I would not use it as a baitwell.

[1bayouboy]

It's a tough thing to get out.....it's bonded to the transom
and also glass to the transom around the edges of the motor cutout.

[htillman]

I have the top cap off and am in process of replacing the transom. I had to cut the baitwell in half to get the top of and since I would never use it was wondering if it would hurt not to reinstall the baitwell. A friend said that is was needed structurally.

[1bayouboy]

Post some photos....I posted some of mine taken out...search for threads I started.