I have a 2001 Ranger R81vs that I have had for about 10 years. It is in great condition, and hull looks great, engine runs strong Great boat. The inside was meticulously maintained by prior owner and now by me. However, as it is 17 years old the interior needs a redo- seats and carpet to be specific. I purchased the High Back Bucket Seats and center console from bassboatseats. https://www.bassboatseats.com/collections/bass-boat-seats/products/l100c

 

I was hoping my local marina would be able to install the seats, but they wouldn't because it would require some custom fabrication. Essentially, when the old seats are removed the gas tank is exposed. Im thinking that it should be simple fix, create a wooden deck over the gas tank, secure it to the boat, carpet it with marine carpet, and then bolt in the seats. My question is- am I foolish to think it is this simple. If anyone has undertaken a similar project, any tips, hints, etc would much be appreciate. 

If it's flat all the way across and there is enough room between the gunwalls to fit the new seats you could probably use a piece with exterior glue to make a platform.

 

As you know, the gas tank being under there, you need to use extreme caution fastening it in.  If you put a hole in that tank with a drill or screw, it's not just going to ruin your day, it's going to ruin your whole year.  Some of those tanks can only be removed by taking the cap off.

before you order anything from bass boat seats ask them what the exact measurement is on the bottom of the seat. i ordered seats that were too small

 

Remember your Ranger bass boat has a center fold down seat/step so the back seater can step down into the boat without stepping on seat cushions.

Tom

WRB my boat had that weird middle seat/step up. I will be replacing the bench seat with two chairs and a center console/step. My question really is has anyone here had to build a wooden deck to close off the gas tank compartment and then bolted the seats to that wooden deck. I will of course be carpeting the wooden deck.