18 SF Minor Rennovation and misc. Improvements

[fdheld34]

Well, I decided to start one main thread on my 18sf instead of jumping around and confusing myself. Again, I purchased boat for son to use in about 10 more years..I will use till then!!!

I decided to concentrate on hull sides first to keep the neighbor happy!!
I used Interlux Primer and finish coat I used Interlux Perfection. I filled holes gouges etc, faired and then sprayed the primer and rolled the three final coats. Do not have to worry about raising transom already done from inside. After discussion with other CSC members etc. I decided to go with a basic white exterior and black boot stripes with basic black decal, due to ease of touchups and minimal fading etc.

Next I will focus on rubrail and exterior hardware (bow and stern eyes etc.). Then I will move to interior- fuel tank replacement, recore fuel hatch etc. etc.

I will update on progress as time permits (doing this in my spare time). I plan on keeping this boat as simple as possible!!!

Here is where I am now..final coat on exterior completed with stripes and basic stickers.


-Fred

[WillyC]

Looking good Fred. Keep up the good work!

[77SceptreOB]

Excellent first step

[DonV]

You go Fred!!! Looks like you are moving in the right direction!!! Very nice!!

[fdheld34]

Thanks guys for the comments and motivation..again just keeping it simple.
Today I was able to remove the t top and leaning post. I think I gave myself a hernia lifting top off of boat!!!!
I also just did easy things today..just cleaned up the stern eyes and installed the ball scuppers...
I got a 6 month old Lab yesterday so he and my son took up most of my time!!!!
Some pics..
-Fred

[fdheld34]

Well..I have not done much to hull. I did get a 1998 Merc 125 mounted on the back though with the help of Don Herman. Will start more work on hull next weekend..... time and interest permitting.
I also have a new to me trailer coming...my trailer has seen better days.
Figured after talking with other CSC members that this motor will be fine and it is under 350 lbs. I took a ride on my friend's 18' with a 150hp and it is just too much engine for me.
Here are some pics
-Fred

[fdheld34]

What do you guys think about console placement?

I plan to remove the console this weekend as well as the fuel tank and was wondering about console placement down the road.
I have read where on the 20's the console is moved back/forward 5 inches for a better ride?
I was thinking of doing this on my 18sf. I do not really have an issue with weight and I will have the room...what would be viable...leave as is or move console back...would it help in the ride on this particular size boat...any other pros or cons??
Also, I plan on redoing console to blank slate and revamping the whole layout for my instruments and will need input and pics of console layouts for this in future!!!!
Thanks all for the help
-Fred

[76Red18]

I moved mine forward 6". You will be happy with the way the 18 rides regardless of console placement +/- a few inches. The best improvment for the 18 is to leave it light in the stern. Trim tabs will help you control the heel from quartering wind and seas. Worth the money in my opinion.

[gw204]

Totally different animal, but I'm going to be moving the console in my Mako 17 forward about 8" for a number of reasons:

1. To help offset the weight of today's heavier engines (I haven't picked one yet).
2. Hopefully get it to self bail a little better.
3. Give me a little more room in the stern to move around.

[fdheld34]

Thanks for the input guys...glad I asked the question BEFORE I decided to move console back...so looks like I will go ahead and leave as is...and well enoguh alone..I could see how moving console forward could help regarding engine weight and self bailing etc.
Tabs are down the road as well!!
Thanks again!
-Fred
Also...since I am here... I attached a pic of tonight's sunset that I took while on my evening walk..I have to turn off the darned date stamp on my camera!!!