Thoughts on Bow Thruster Install

[Meanwhile]

I'm looking to buy a Marlin and wanted some advice on the photo of the bow thruster. I've never had a boat with an after market bow thruster, but I searched and found a photo of MikeC's installation that looks very nice. The photo that concerns me is below, followed by MikeC's link.

gallery/image.php?album_id=18&image_id=675&view=no_count

https://plus.google.com/photos/10161282 ... 9531055210

So what do you make of the installation procedure in the first photo? Anyone seen that type of installation? Looks like they cut out an entire hull section.

Randy

 

[ElyseM]

That's a GW factory installation. Before the hull is laid up, a plug is set where the thruster goes. Then the hull is laid up around the plug. After the hull is pulled out it could basically be splashed and float. When they do the install of the thruster, they add a regular tunnel (under the hull) and then "glue" the outside plug piece under the tunnel. Great hull integrity.

You will have to do a regular install though.

Good luck, Ron

 

[Meanwhile]

Thanks so much, you pointed me in the right direction. I found this from a factory tour thread on THT where you also explained the process.

 

[Fishtales]

a lot of manufacturers are doing it this way when installing at the factory. I think it is not only easier, but likely better.