DIY job?!

I bought me a 16 foot fishing boat made from GRP.I want to sand and paint the top , There was a rubber around the rim where the top is srewed or bolted to the hull . This rubber was made from an old wire casing . After I removed the rubber , I found the most bolds rosted and rotten .
I intend to remove them and replace them with stainless steel ones . The edges where the top meets the hull , are not sealed and quiet raw . I plan to seal them with epoxy and filler or putty.
I would like to replace the rubber with something else , but can't see how I can 'bend' wood or steel or aloy around the front part ? Would like to hear some advice .
I repair the boat in my backyard and I'm not a specialist .
Money is aswell an importened aspect as I just want to go seafishing with the boat and the wife already protests.
Any advice ? Thanks Kay

 

My main advice would be to look at the numbers.

Is this boat worth fixing, or is it a labor of love that you will do even if the repairs cost more than the boat is worth?

 

From what you are telling, the boat is still pretty sound, but you want a boat that looks better.

For what I see of it, this boat already has been in the hands of a good willing amateur, who did a couple of things "quick and dirty". See the windows, for example. Or the pulpit (non stainless)

I suggest using a pressure cleaner to clean the thing up, sand the deck with a course scotch brite, and paint with some LPU paint.

I would not bother about the hull to deck joint, unless it is not stable. (then you should fix things up)

Then use the boat to your likings, fix and adjust as neccesary, so you get a good view of what you demand from a boat. In the meantime, keep looking for another boat, which looks good. You also get a good view of what you can and what you cannot fix. Which helps selecting.

 

thanks

Thanks for the fast reply . Have sanded and cleaned the top and the gelcoat of the hull is fine . I still don't know what to do with the ugly black rubber ! With what could I replace it ?
I'll keep you guys updated and post some more pictures in the aftyernoon .
And ---- yes , It's to be my pride and joy . I paid 300 pounds for all .Trailer , boat and 35hp evinrude . Did I pay for scrap ? Should I rather sell it before I open a bottomless pit ? I 've got remote controls and only the wire for the steering is missing .
Highest Regards Kay
P.S.: That's not me in the picture , but the guy I bought it from!!

 

Hi
Just to show some new photos . What is best , to do ?
Where can I get a rubrail or something to cover the edges ?

 

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