Custom Helm Pod

[polarizer]

I have a 1985 45' convertable. Over the past few years I have been updating stuff, like C-12 Cats, new interior, custom Slane cabinets in the cockpit etc. I looking for a new custom helm pod for the fly bridge. Other then Slane and Fiber Tech does anyone know someone who specializes in custom fiberglass stuff for these rigs. It's a shame, if you look under Bertram Parts, you get loads of stuff like this. BTW, Slane has done great work for me in the past, I'm just looking for alternatives.

 

[Captcoop]

I have a 45C with QSM11 engines that Jarrett Bay Boatworks did some custom work on for me. They are in Beaufort, NC. (252-728-2690) and my contact was Jeff Fulcher. Good Luck

 

[surfdancer45]

I think Release Marine and Scopinich both sell helm pods but I think they would be rather pricey. If you went with a teak pod you would have more options than with glass. Bob

 

[Calcutta]

I know you are already aware of Slane, but this thread was too relative to let slip by:
When we were re-fitting my boat, Hattaboy, this past year, I decided to install a helm pod. I actually wanted to go the teak route and visited Release Marine in Savannah to see first-hand what they had, which was a very pretty, but one-size teak bubble. I went back to Slane (where the boat was) with my idea of what it should look like, Tom redesigned a mold he has and esentially custom-fit it for the size & width of the stock Series I 36' helm instrument dash it was glassed onto. Also, spent considerable time matching the pod's height to my stance. Finally, they built it around the single lever controls that I had already purchased.

I know the the 'glass pod was less expensive than the teak version, including the custom-fit installation. I also am certain there are infinate options for 'glass at a less costly price than teak. Also, I'm pretty sure Slane will come to your boat & do this type of stuff...not sure if Release or Scopinich do.

 

[polarizer]

All, Thank you. Familiar with the release, sort of pricey. The big nut which I'm concerned about is the single levers from Glendenning or Cat. Coop, how is your performance? I recall going back and forth when you were making the choice. At 1900 rpm, I'm 27.5 Kts and roughly 48 gph. I know Jeff as I had him qoute on an entire redo of my outside. Funny, he never followed up on the quote. The thing with these outfits, wether wood or fiberglass, fiberglass cant possibly cost $500. Think about it. Calcutta, can you give me an idea of the cost of the pod, less install? also what type of single levers did you select, and can you share your cost? Bob, thanks for the heads up on Scopinich, I'll look into that as well.

 

[Captcoop]

At 2000rpm I'm @ 27.5 and burn 44gph. I still need to get the load up on the engines I'm only @ 94% @ WOT 2350 (32.5K). I have bought new props and hope to try them soon. I really hope to get my cruse speed up 1-2K with fuel cost so high. Good Luck