I finally got my 36 PD on the boat, the blind modified and now im
thinking that the rear seat needs cut and change to a side pod only
type of config. I got in it today and it seems that with the
full bench its not the best for operating and getting to the manual
reverse release thing.

Here it is without the motor on it



I was thinking if I cut the bench even withe the pods and then
plate the floor and the sides re-weld them back in that would
open it up to where I can sit closer to the motor and
not have to step over the seat or kneel on it to run the engine.

Any Issues to this idea? maybe not even straight cut but angle
cut towards the hull a little to open it up even more?

There is flotation in there but I would definitely cut that bench seat down and make pod seating. I have the split bench in my War Eagle and its so much more comfortable to drive sitting down.

Cut the bench. And while you're modifying things, go ahead and get you a pin puller for that manual reverse. It'll change your life forever...

Good point CJB. The only PD I ever ran was a buddy's that had manual reverse. That shit got old quick!

Found the Pin Puller link very cool I think that will be a YES for sure.

Appreciate the info, I imagine under the seat there is no floor pan so
will have to add. there was no floor pan under the side pod that I cut
for my gas tank.

WHERE would you cut?
Even with the rear pods and go straignt? most simple
Even on the right and maybe out to the gas tank on the left? leave room for a storage hatch.
or angle out on both to open up more space?

I have never even RUN a PD motor, had godevil long tails for years and outboards.
I just deal with shallow sandy bottoms and I STAY AWAY FROM MUD! lol

appreciate the info.

If there is indeed foam under the bench, you can forget the welding. Even if you try and spot weld it trying to let it cool, it will catch fire and melt. Tried it on a bass tracker at the dumbass owners request. WE cut out everything and used pan head self tapping screws for a flatter cleaner look. They almost look like rivet heads.

Dropped her off a local boat builder shop today will get to the mods
next week or so. Blind came off last night. The foam is removeable
as I removed the foam from the left pod when I cut in the gas tank.

Going to go side you sit on even with the pod and the other
side will be about 32" almost to the tank and Im going to put
a hatch in that side for the Onboard charger and possibly the
battery for the trolling motor in that empty spot.

They will add alum under the seat where the new floor is going
to go for me and TIG it all back up.

Will be a good mod and they have the right tools for the job
sometimes its best to spend a few bucks and get it done
once and right.

Appreciate all the infor and I will be getting one of thoes
cable releases for the reverse for SURE!

Congrats Dave. Definitely a worthwhile modification and good to know it'll be done right. Make sure to post pictures when you get it back.