18SF Restoration - Advice on top paint and details

[pjzabo]

Almost done on my 1977 18SF. Raised the transom to 25", new alum tank, fully rewired and fresh Zuke 140 swinging a 3 blade 14" prop. It screams and I love it. Deck was so solid I didn't want to mess with it so I went two good bilge pumps, cut out the stupid below deck livewell (that was fun), ping pong scuppers and deck drains. Will add a hinged splashboard. My focus is on "light and simple".

Questions - I had a friend spray the hull Awl-Craft Ice blue but I want to do the top (deck, gunnels, console) myself.

1. What paint should I use? Do I have to spray it or can I get a nice result with roll and tip?
2. I went with dual batteries in the console, but I also want to move the console forward a little to help with weight distribution. Is there a consensus on how much forward from stock is reasonable and still looks "right". Is 6" forward meaningful for a weight shift?
3. I want to replace stock seat with a small leaning post, but one that can still support two men behind the console - nothing fancy. Just something light to lean my butt against (no rodholders, etc.). What manufacturers/models do people like?
4. Anchor solution. I'm using a Fortress FX-7 anchor and 200' of rhode. I would like to store it cleanly. I was thinking of removing that small piece of wood floor in the front anchor cubby and seeing if it would fit in there hanging straight down - maybe I can mount a PVC tube somehow to put the shaft of the anchor in
and build a wall separating the fish box from the anchor/rhode storage area. Anybody try this?

Thanks in advance for any advice. This site has bee invaluable in helping me so far!!

Pete

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