Cooler Seat/Livewell Design Advice

[CamB25]

I've finished modifying my center console to shrink the lounger down to an insulated cooler seat. The cooler is large ~ 30 gallons. I used a male mold to make the liner - gelcoat surface. I was thinking that it might double as a live well (another design afterthought!). I have reasonable access all around for plumbing, etc. I have no experience with live well design...can anyone help with some advice on design, part sources, etc?

My initial thoughts/questions:
- Bottom drain with valve - route to stern mascerator pump
- Lights - blue LED?
- Fill - single or multiple? sizes?
- overflow(s)? how high, how many?

thanks!
Cam

[CaptPatrick]

Cam,

Have you studied mine?

[Charlie J]

I was just going to say, check out capt patricks

[Rawleigh]

If it were me I would put a flush bottom drain in each rear corner so you don/t have the problem of water being trapped on the non-drain side of the cooler. Maybe make them large enough so that you can use the SS screen drains you can get for the kitchen sink. Save having a macerator pump. Also, if you can make the pipe and thru hull larger than the drain inlet size you won't have much problem with plugging.

Like these:

http://galleryplus.ebayimg.com/ws/web/3 ... 0x1000.jpg

I actually use one on the coolant drain in the chip pan on my 14x40 lathe.

[CamB25]

That's a good idea! I molded the bottom surface to drain to the center and there is a mini-sump in the center/rear of the liner. Thanks!

I'm thinking (dangerous)...3/4" end of day drain, 2 ea 1.5" overflow drains in the rear about 3/4 height of tank, 2 ea. 3/4 inputs (high/low), maybe a recirc pump, tri-colr LED thru hull lights, acrylic lid...

[Rocket]

Cam, you may be slow, but you sure are good! That is looking great, your 25 is going to be so sick, dude!

[CamB25]

Thanks, Rocket. After 5.5 years it is still very much a work in progress. It's evolved into more of a sculpture than a boat project. A series of mini-projects. The only time I get frustrated is when I focus on being done, rather than enjoying the journey.

I damn sure hope it floats!