I’ve been wanting to do this project for a while, for a few reasons: First, its a real hassle to cast a net and clear the rail. Second, I want to get a trolling motor. Third, I think it will look better .
Here is the before (Note hellaciously-high bow rail):
First stop was to Haddrell’s to get some insight on the construction…bad news - I’ll have to drill out the screws (thought so ) No big.
Next stop: Home Depot, for a handful of carbide 3/16" drill bits.
With the trusty DeWalt cordless and a squirt bottle of coolant, off we go:
In short order, had the first stantion off:
Twenty-two screws later … and she’s off!
There was a bunch of stain/junk under the stantions, so I did a little light sanding with 220g sandpaper:
Before:
After:
Nearly complete:
Last, but not least…gotta mix up the white Marine Tex:
Still to do:
Sand the Marine Tex
Decide what to do to pretty up where the stantions were. They are yellowed from lack of exposure to the sun, etc. Any ideas? I may get some stainless steel disks made up to screw down over those spots
Relocate my VHF antenna to the center console. I have this about 3/4 done already. This is gonna keep me from being able to have the antenna up with the bimini also…oh well. I do think I will get a little more range on the VHF with it
After an upclose inspection of the fine workmanship, I give it 9 out of 10 Fish Hooks. It would have been 10 out of 10, but the trolling motor isn’t mounted yet.
You may be able to get some spray paint close to the boat color spray a few coats with short blast on the areas and use compound or wet sand to dull the finish and blend to gell coat. I did some spots like that on my boat and it worked great.
Next time use toothpaste as a lube and go real slow with the drill. You’ll be amazed at how much easier it will cut the screws.
Mark
Mako 262 Twin Yammaha F200s
Yeah, but do you consider a dog to be a filthy animal? I wouldn’t go so far as to call a dog filthy but they’re definitely dirty. But, a dog’s got personality. Personality goes a long way.
“Life’s tough…It’s even tougher if you’re stupid” John Wayne
If you really want to match it call Spectrum Color (http://www.spectrumcolor.com/). They sell gel coat to match the color of your boat. Just give theme the year and model. I took the rail off mine and the gel matched perfectly.
Thanks for the comments and suggestions, guys.
claim, its off a 180cc, so not sure it will fit. But I will be happy to give it to a fellow CF.com’er if they can use it.
If you want to check it out to see/make measurements, just send me a PM…
Thanks for the comments and suggestions, guys.
claim, its off a 180cc, so not sure it will fit. But I will be happy to give it to a fellow CF.com’er if they can use it.
If you want to check it out to see/make measurements, just send me a PM…
SeaPro 180CC
Optiker…PM sent!
“I am constantly amazed at the stupidity of the general public.”
~my dad
Equipment:
190cc Sea Pro w/130 Johnson
1- 13 year old
1 - 9 year old
1 - wife (The Warden)
Looks great, I am wanting to do that with my boat. I actually cut the
bow rail for my trolling motor install but the rail does get in the way more than it helps. My cast net loves it
I am actually thinking of adding rod holders where I remove the rails
to cover up the discolored areas. Maybe a couple more 30 deg and then some 0 degree for just holding rods
Claim, you are a true gentleman, and it was nice to meet you.
I don’t know where you think you can call your sweet wife, “the warden” LOL
Hope you enjoy the bow rail!
Claim, you are a true gentleman, and it was nice to meet you.
I don’t know where you think you can call your sweet wife, “the warden” LOL
Hope you enjoy the bow rail!
Opitker, the bow rail looks like a perfect match. I went to Hankels to get some toggles today but got there a little late and they were closed. I drove to Seel’s in Mt.P and they only had 17…not enough to do the job.
It’ll be a Monday project.
I can’t thank you enough for the rail.
“I am constantly amazed at the stupidity of the general public.”
~my dad
Equipment:
190cc Sea Pro w/130 Johnson
1- 14 year old
1 - 10 year old
1 - wife (The Warden)
Optiker, I have the exact same boat. Sea pro 180CC. I decided to go with the Low profile rail that was open in the front for cast netting. Pm me if you want pics of the low profile rail.
Reel-Man or Boy
“Saying you’re patriotic is like saying you have a big $$$$. If you have to say it, chances are it’s not true” Bill Maher
.
) No big.
… and she’s off!
