1979 Ranger 178V restore and paint project.

[_7_]

I am going to be restoring a 1979 Ranger 178V for my father.


I have not found may articles on refurbing a bass boat so I am looking for some advice.

1. My big debate is wether or not to remove the deck from the hull and just how involved that may get. I think that is the correct way to inspect everything and repair as needed. Front and rear live wells do not function properly, so I would like to be able to inspect the plumbing on them.

2. Steering rack is bent and needs replaced.

3. The paint is in very bad shape as it was left outside un covered and has bad sun damage. I am researching how much this restore will cost prior to starting the project. There are some repairs needed to the hull and deck such as small holes that I would like to patch and sand out. There is also a small 2"-3" crack in the transom on the deck side.

4. Trolling motor wiring needs some attention as well.

Looking for information on where to find any and all parts necessary.
-rubber molding at deck/hull
-deck paint... prefer red with flake to match existing color.
-hull paint... basic beige
-trolling motor wiring setup? such as the panel the trolling motor plugs into.


I will post some pics later tonight.

 

[Isaacm1986]

Re: 1979 Ranger 178V restore and paint project.

Ranger bass boat!

I started a restore thread on a 1978 ranger bass boat I was in the middle of restoring. I got a new deck put in, and poured the transom with the nidabond, but I ran out of funds and had to sell it before i got it finished. You are welcome to take a look at it. I got it put back together for the most part.

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=370311

Seperating the two halves of these boats are a lot more difficult. They were wet stripped together. So it is a lot more involved than just taking off the rubrail. I was able to get all the rotted deck out using a scraper, and the i laid new deck in.

Would love to see some pics, and we will help you along the way!

 

[_7_]

Re: 1979 Ranger 178V restore and paint project.

pics

 

[_7_]

Re: 1979 Ranger 178V restore and paint project.

After some thought I am hoping I do not have to seperate the hull/deck, hopefully I can just replace the floor as needed.

Time to research gel coat with flake.

 

[_7_]

Re: 1979 Ranger 178V restore and paint project.

As you can tell by the burgundy flake paint the clear finish is almost completely gone. Can anyone recommend a clear to re spray with?

Can I just use an automotive clear?
Is there a specific marine clear I should use?

 

[rangerv178]

Re: 1979 Ranger 178V restore and paint project.

I know this thread is old but hopefully you will respond. I have the exact same boat that I recently got from my grandfather in law and I am in the same situation you are in. Did you ever get this boat restored? I will post my own thread later today with pictures of my ranger so hopefully I can get some advice with restoration. Was your transom made out of wood encased in that aluminum?