Can I cut this?

[94 Gambler]

I have a '94 Intimidator and I want to put in a recessed trolling motor tray. Before I just started cutting away, I took a look at what I'd be cutting. There's seems to be a fiberglass square under the deck, and I'd have to cut away a portion of the square. I'm assuming this "square" is to strengthen the floor, and I'm very hesitant to cut it. Has anyone put a trolling motor tray in an old Gambler like this? I'm attaching a picture, with a red arrow showing the part of the "square" I'd have to eliminate approximately 11" of.




20240227_200730.jpg

[scotty34]

Looks like a rib to prevent flex. You could make your cuts then glass in some square wood strips and tie them into the existing to reinforce.

[CCGambler206]

That’s actually aluminum with fiberglass around it at least it was in my 209 when I cut it out

[stu924]

I put on in a 1996 209 several years ago. Just make sure your depth is enough for tm tray. I had to get the less shallow tray for it to work. But it was real close.

[stu924]

Sorry. It was the more shallow tray.