New Angler w/ plenty of questions

[ffescareer]

Just starting fishng w/ family & friends (Party of 4). Chipped in and bought a 14' aluminum row boat by crestliner (1981 - commodore deep v). Boat is in good shape for its age. Seems to have "standard lay out - 5 beams nothing fancy". I want to turn it into a bass boat or at least close to one.

What options do I have? everyone is telling me to leave the beams alone because they are riveted and I dont want to jeoprodize the boats structure if it is already in good shape.

If I want to paint it myself what basic tools I need? and what is the general process involve?

Is there a saltwater paint that I can use?

How would I restore the boats original color?

Is non skid paint good to apply directly to the hull floor interior?


I have no area to put fish if I decide to keep them. How would I install a livewell without messing with the beams?

What size oars do I need in case of emergency? I see alot of kayak/canoe paddles not boat oars though.

If I wanted to upgrade to a larger boat (I have a party of 4 in total - I feel we wont have enough space to move around when fishing) do marinas accept used boats as a down payment?

 

[marine4003]

Re: New Angler w/ plenty of questions

If i understand the question correctly..i think you mean stringers..the cross members that reinforce the hull. and NO, never modify the structure of a hull unless you have a degree in marine engineering,painting..Interlux makes different types of paint for aluminum for use on the outside of the hull, as for the interior rustolium is a good product,for a livewell,a cooler is good along with an airater hooked up to the battery,finally..the only way to determine what a dealer or marina will accept as a down payment on a newer craft...ask.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: New Angler w/ plenty of questions

Welcome to iboats!!

Great idea to modify the layout to fit your needs. There are certain things you need to keep in mind..... when you design the "bass boat" layout it may raise your center of gravity and will change your hull's weight.

We have had MANY members redesign and rebuilt aluminum boats to improve the configurations.

I will move this into the restoration forum and I also suggest you read through the complete project section.

Good luck!