Let’s Dive into Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base 9″ Left Flat Side
The Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base 9″ Left Flat Side isn’t the kind of gear that screams “tacticool,” but it’s absolutely essential for anyone outfitting a boat for serious fishing or comfortable cruising. From Springfield Marine, this base provides a secure and stable platform for pedestal seating, turning your vessel into a functional and enjoyable space. Its high-strength aluminum construction and thoughtful design make it a worthy investment, even if it’s less flashy than the latest GPS fish finder.
My old boat seat base was rusting and wobbly, making every fishing trip an exercise in balance. I needed a reliable, durable solution that wouldn’t corrode in the harsh marine environment, and I wanted something that was easy to install and compatible with my existing seating. The Springfield Marine base promised all of that, plus the convenience of a plug-in system for easy seat removal.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the heft and solid feel of the aluminum. The satin finish looked clean and professional, and the flat side detail was a nice touch, indicating a well-thought-out design. It felt significantly more robust than the flimsy, powder-coated steel base it was replacing; this felt like a piece built to last.
I considered a few similar products, including a cheaper, no-name brand base and a higher-end, stainless steel option. Ultimately, I chose the Springfield Marine base because it seemed to strike the perfect balance between quality, price, and functionality. Stainless steel was overkill for my needs, and I wasn’t willing to gamble on the inferior materials of the cheaper alternative.
My first impression was one of quiet confidence. It wasn’t a flashy, exciting purchase, but it was a practical one that promised to solve a real problem and improve my boating experience. I was eager to get it installed and see it in action, hoping it would live up to its promise of durability and stability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base 9″ Left Flat Side to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base on my 18-foot aluminum fishing boat, right before a weekend trip targeting walleye on Lake Erie. The installation was straightforward, requiring drilling a 3-3/4″ hole in the deck (as described), aligning the base, and securing it with bolts (not included). Once installed, the pedestal seat plugged in smoothly and felt remarkably stable.
The conditions on Lake Erie that weekend were far from ideal: choppy water, moderate winds, and occasional spray. Despite the less-than-perfect conditions, the Springfield Marine base performed admirably. There was no wobble or play in the seat, and I felt confident and secure even when navigating through the waves.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. Being able to quickly plug in and remove the seat pedestal was a game-changer, making it easy to reconfigure the boat for different activities. There were no unexpected issues; the base performed exactly as advertised, providing a solid and reliable foundation for my fishing seat.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Springfield Marine base continues to perform flawlessly. It has endured countless fishing trips, exposure to saltwater spray, and the general wear and tear of being on a boat. The aluminum has shown no signs of corrosion, and the plug-in mechanism remains tight and secure.
The durability has been particularly impressive. I’ve accidentally bumped the base with gear, stepped on it while moving around the boat, and subjected it to various forms of abuse, but it has held up without a scratch. Maintenance is a breeze; a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is all it takes to keep it looking like new.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, less durable seat bases, the Springfield Marine base is a clear winner. It’s a more robust and reliable product that has significantly improved my boating experience. I no longer worry about my seat wobbling or the base corroding; I can simply focus on fishing.
Breaking Down the Features of Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base 9″ Left Flat Side
Specifications
The Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base 9″ Left Flat Side boasts a 9-inch diameter, providing a wide and stable footprint on your boat deck. The 7-inch hole pattern makes it compatible with many common boat seating systems. Constructed from high-strength aluminum, it is designed to withstand the rigors of the marine environment.
- Material: High-strength aluminum. This ensures corrosion resistance and long-lasting durability.
- Diameter: 9 inches. This provides a broad, stable base for the seat post.
- Hole Pattern: 7 inches. A common hole pattern ensures compatibility with many seats.
- Flat Side: Left side. This allows for flush mounting against a vertical surface.
- Satin Finish. Offers a clean, professional look that resists scratches and wear.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the base’s performance and longevity. The aluminum construction prevents rust, which is a common problem with cheaper steel bases. The 9-inch diameter provides a more stable and secure seating platform, especially in rough water.
Performance & Functionality
The Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base performs its job exceptionally well: providing a secure and stable mounting point for a boat seat. Its plug-in design allows for quick and easy seat removal and installation. It eliminates the need for tools and significantly simplifies boat reconfigurations.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction. The aluminum base feels solid and secure, and the plug-in mechanism works smoothly. A potential weakness is the requirement of drilling a 3-3/4″ hole in the deck for installation, which might be daunting for some users.
This product has far exceeded my expectations. I was hoping for a durable and reliable seat base, and that’s exactly what I got. The added convenience of the plug-in design was a bonus.
Design & Ergonomics
The Springfield Marine base features a clean and functional design. The satin finish is aesthetically pleasing, and the flat side allows for flush mounting against a wall or console. The weight is substantial enough to feel solid but not so heavy as to be cumbersome.
The design is very user-friendly. Installation is relatively straightforward, and the plug-in mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate. There’s no learning curve involved; it simply works as intended.
Durability & Maintenance
With its high-strength aluminum construction, the Springfield Marine base is built to last. I expect it to outlast my boat, requiring minimal maintenance. A simple rinse with fresh water after each use is sufficient to keep it looking and performing its best.
Repairability isn’t a major concern with a product like this. The simple design means there’s little to break, and the aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion. If any parts were to fail, replacements would likely be readily available from Springfield Marine or other marine supply retailers.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base is designed to work with any 2-3/8″ Plug-In Series Post (sold separately). This allows for some customization in terms of seat height. Beyond that, there are limited customization options for a product like this, as its primary function is to serve as a mounting base.
It is compatible with a wide range of boat seats and pedestal posts from Springfield Marine and other manufacturers, provided they adhere to the 2-3/8″ plug-in standard. This versatility is a significant advantage, as it allows users to choose the seat that best suits their needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base 9″ Left Flat Side
Pros
- Durable Aluminum Construction. The high-strength aluminum ensures long-lasting performance in harsh marine environments.
- Easy Plug-In Installation. The plug-in design allows for quick and convenient seat removal and installation.
- Stable and Secure. The 9-inch diameter provides a solid and wobble-free seating platform.
- Satin Finish. The clean satin finish offers a professional look and resists scratches.
- Compatibility. Works with any 2-3/8″ Plug-In Series Post (sold separately).
Cons
- Requires Drilling. Installation requires drilling a 3-3/4″ hole in the deck, which might be a deterrent for some users.
- Post Sold Separately. The pedestal post is not included with the base, adding to the overall cost.
Who Should Buy Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base 9″ Left Flat Side?
The Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base is perfect for boat owners looking for a durable, reliable, and easy-to-use seat mounting solution. It is especially well-suited for anglers who frequently reconfigure their boat for different fishing styles, or anyone who wants the flexibility to easily remove seats for storage or transport. Pro anglers, recreational boaters, and anyone upgrading their boat’s seating will appreciate this base.
This product might not be necessary for someone with a brand new boat that already has high-quality seat bases installed. Additionally, someone who rarely uses their boat or doesn’t prioritize seat stability might find the price point unjustified.
A must-have accessory is a compatible Springfield Marine plug-in series pedestal post of the appropriate height for your needs. Additionally, consider using marine-grade sealant during installation to prevent water intrusion and further enhance corrosion resistance.
Conclusion on Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base 9″ Left Flat Side
The Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base 9″ Left Flat Side is a well-built, thoughtfully designed product that delivers on its promise of durability, stability, and ease of use. The price is justified by the high-quality materials and robust construction.
I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone in need of a reliable boat seat base. It has significantly improved my boating experience, and I am confident that it will continue to perform well for years to come.
If you’re tired of wobbly, rusting seat bases and want a product that will stand up to the rigors of the marine environment, invest in the Springfield Marine 1300750-L1 Plug In Series Aluminum Post Base. Your back (and your fishing buddies) will thank you.