HF Apache 9800 case......

Crow Horse · Sep 18, 2023

I picked up a 9800 Apache case with the 25% off coupon to use for my fishing rods & reels during transport. To strengthen the pick n pluck foam after removing the appropriate foam, I first sprayed it with Flex Seal which goes on a lot heavier than Plasti Dip but produces a rougher surface. After it cured I then hit it with a number of coats of Plasti Dip for a smoother finish. It seems to have worked well.

I added lift struts to keep the top lid open. Pretty simple.

The case itself is pretty bombproof but it is heavy.

Pinemarten · Sep 18, 2023

Good idea adding the struts!

thr3squared · Sep 18, 2023

x2 on the struts. I see how the strut attaches at the bottome (nut on the outside), but how is it sercured at the top?

also, is that a paracord loop with a drawcord lock to secure the poles? have any more pictures? I've used big rubber bands and a cut-down golf tee (yes, very primitive), but the bands eventually dry out and break so I need to go another route.

vavet · Sep 18, 2023

That is slick! Nice work.
I'm confused where the Flex Seal goes. Is it the newly exposed foam edges where you removed the foam to create the holes?

Crow Horse · Sep 18, 2023

The struts are 13#, 12" struts. The paracord loops are used with leashes (I fish from a kayak) to keep a rod from going overboard. I do have loops I made from 1/8" (or 3/32) bungee cord to secure 2 piece rods together (see photo below).
The top 10mm ball stud mount is the same as the bottom. The mounting locations are slightly different between left & right struts due to the way the case is made. I did have to remove a small "rib" on the top part of the bottom (if that makes sense). Easily accomplished with a dremel. The leashes are from NeverLost Gear. I use them on virtually everything that doesn't float on my yak.

If you look closely, you'll see how the paracord loop and leash connect.

Crow Horse · Sep 18, 2023

That is slick! Nice work.
I'm confused where the Flex Seal goes. Is it the newly exposed foam edges where you removed the foam to create the holes?

Thanks. I sprayed the top, sides, and whatever would spray into where the foam was removed. Then top coated (when cured) with Plasti Dip.

The Flex Seal and Plasti Dip treatment isn't just for aesthetics. It binds together the pick n pluck foam so it isn't as fragile. If this wasn't done, the foam would come apart in short order.

Edit**** When fully cured, I used black silicone to mate it with the bottom foam.