Dogbomb-
Congrats on jumping into your project. The port hull looks real nice. First of all there is lots of good advice on this sight & not always in agreement (i.e. outboard brackets versus not). Here are a few of my comments based on 40 years with my '76 Seafari. See the photos of my instrument panel and teak bolsters.
1- As to the bow rail removal making it easier when you beach the boat. Beaching it is not recommended (as seen in other CSC posts). It will be hard to get on & off, not good for the keel, and if the tide goes out maybe impossible to push off.
And the biggest reason it's easier to swamp if waves hit your stern. Better to add a swim platform to the transom, anchor bow out, back into the beach trimming up as you go, then plant a stern anchor up on the beach. Just step out of the stern jump seat onto the platform into knee deep water. Got any little kids with you, it's easier for them to go back and forth to the boat. I find the bow rail helpful for its intended purpose, keeping me on the bow deck when anchoring!
2- If interested I'll send some photos of my platform (I may have some on my phone, but not on the laptop). Together years ago Bushwacker & I built platforms with teak slats across a stainless u-shaped, hinged tube. (Bushwacker's went to 65Bowrider when he added the outboard bracket). Then a few years ago I added a fold down ladder, but devised a way to support it from under the platform. The platform serves another good purpose, if it's a coed trip and someone wants to go #1 without using the portapotty or it's too cold to get fully immersed, just sit down on it! Also a way to get into the boat if it's too difficult from your trailer.
3- I redid my instrument panel with Starboard to replace the faded brown, wood looking original. I basically kept all the switches & accompanying fuse holders in the original location. I have no fuse block in the bilge.
4- After my coaming bolsters were shot, I replaced the plywood backing with 3/8" thick teak. It stays under cover now, but 11 year old Siskins Cetol finish still looks great as you can see in the photo.
Best wishes
http://www.classicseacraft.com/commu...pictureid=2213
http://www.classicseacraft.com/commu...pictureid=2101