Storage container on a Hobie?

I have an idea to make a plastic/fiberglass storage box that fits between the pylons on top of the hulls under frame rails. It would have 1 or 2 locking doors that open for access to store tools, lines, BEER? I would like your opinions, would it be worth the set-up cost to mass produce, or even make by hand over the winter? I'm going to make one for myself, but should set it up to be able to make more, what do you guys think? Thanks.

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[color=#4000FF]1974 Hobie 16 (Keepin 4 my sons)

I like the idea of more storage, but I would personally prefer it in front of the front crossbar.

I just got a old black milk crate, I am going to attach it to the dolphin striker before next sailing season. I have a pouch on a draw string that is normally attached to the tramp that I use for a few tools, spare part and loose end of the halyards. I would put that pouch in the crate instead (attached of course), would also permit me to bring a small cooler as well.

It won't be pretty, but it will be functional.

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Marc...
1978 Hobie 16 Keoke, sail# 36 84

Thanks for the input, after dwelling on your idea, I would think any loose stuff in container on front crossbar would be sliding back and forth as you would be flying hulls, therefore, shaking up the beer, on the sides, it wouldn't be moving as much. Can you tell I like my beer on a Hobie day? Keep it coming, thanks.

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[color=#4000FF]1974 Hobie 16 (Keepin 4 my sons)

I like my beer too, why else would I want to bring a cooler?

The only thing I can think of for a storage compartment in the front would be to have dividers in it to minimize the movement. Like baffles.

I think your beer will be shaken anyway if the water is choppy.

Some ATVers use a foam block and drill out holes to put beer cans, keeps them from bouncing around.

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Marc...
1978 Hobie 16 Keoke, sail# 36 84

I agree with you, but, the width of crossbar makes a bigger compartment, adding more materials and cost, are you my first order?

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[color=#4000FF]1974 Hobie 16 (Keepin 4 my sons)

I do believe Hobie makes a storage box for the crossbar, I'm sure a picture of it will show up on this thread, I can't find it on my 2003 catalog, I need a new one.

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[color=#4000FF]1974 Hobie 16 (Keepin 4 my sons)

No, but I will be to help you with the design by testing your prototypes for free.

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Marc...
1978 Hobie 16 Keoke, sail# 36 84

That'll work, you would pay for shipping, right? $179.00.

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[color=#4000FF]1974 Hobie 16 (Keepin 4 my sons)

I volunteer to do quality control on the beer to ensure that it remains cool and wet on a hot summers day...

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Cheers Doug
2010 H16 SE
'smoke'

Nothing we have ever made other than for the 21 Sport Cruiser. Weight forward... bad.

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Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

unless you have a spin

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1981 Hobie 16
1982 Hobie 14 turbo (sold)
1996 SeaDoo GTI
1999 Hunter 340

Ok, then the best place would be under tramp frame, center of gravity. Maybe I should supply the storage boxes with beer, any interest in that?

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[color=#4000FF]1974 Hobie 16 (Keepin 4 my sons)

And a open top so I can get one hand down thru the lacing and steer with the other hand !!! jks

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Cheers Doug
2010 H16 SE
'smoke'

Thinking that under the tramp frame should be reserved for passing water, putting a barrier there to smash into waves may impede your forward progress...to the abc store of course.

ChrisD, I'm thinking on top of the hull, under the frame rail, I don't think it's blocking any water. I'll try to mock up a picture of where it's going. Keep it coming, I will get this figured out yet. I really think it's a good idea, but will take seeing it to believing it. Thanks to all for the inputs. BTW, every beer is helping out, on the dock yet! Fairwinds to all!

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[color=#4000FF]1974 Hobie 16 (Keepin 4 my sons)