Boat Buzz

Hello, I am trying to determine the proper type of seat cushion supports for my 1942, 17' Special Runabout. In my research I have found some with the spring type and others with just planks on an angle that slope down at the rear. The side profile drawing shows planks on an angle. Any comments will be appreciated!

did you check with the mariner's museum for drawings? generally the runabouts during this period had a box spring with cushions on top. however, i believe the special was an economy model so perhaps they didnt use that arrangement?

if it originally came with a box spring arrangement it would not have plank supports underneath running from side to side as part of the seat framing, just an open area above the bilge with of course some support framing that the box spring seat could sit on. the base of the box spring set up, of course, consisted of side to side planking.

let us know what you find out. thanks.

Hello Don, thank you for your reply. I have the Side Profile drawing (attached) and I've seen 2 other '42, 17' SR with this arrangement. I agree the SR was an economy model that may not have coil spring seat bases. Today I will call the Mariner's Museum to see if there is another drawing that may show more information. Regards, Jim

Box springs were not spec'd for the 17 special as standard.

Thanks for chiming in, Greg. If they were ordered, would they would be mentioned on the Boat Equipment Record? See attached.

Oops, I downloaded the wrong Side Profile in my earlier post. Correct one attached.

Yes, I would expect a deviation such as box spring seats to be enumerated on the hull card (equipment record). Some cool extras listed on yours, by the way.

To Greg & Don, thank you for your replies. With your input, information on the hull card, drawings obtained from the Mariner's Museum and photos of other 1942, 17' SR members boats, I have determined my boat did not come with spring seat supports. Now I am ready to proceed with the interior. Thanks again! - Jim

glad all that worked out for you. please post some pictures as you make progress on restoration!