Well it has been awhile since I updated this post, but some progress has been made on my boat. I was able to complete the framing of the front deck. It includes a rod locker, battery hatch with room for 2 batteries, storage hatch housing a large rubbermaid container, one small hatch for smaller objects, a cutout that allows the oars and net to slide under the deck, a recessed area for the foot control of the bow mount trolling motor, and a area to slide a coleman cooler into. I also ran a pvc pipe from front to back allowing power to get to the back of the boat. In the floor you can also see where I installed two seat bases. I have to thank my dad who helped out a bunch. He's retired carpenter and can really make things look good (notice all the bases are recessed into the decking, which does away with the raised area over the base when the carpet is installed) We also installed a access hatch in the recessed area for the foot control that allows me access to the bow of the boat.
All the framing was done with 2x2's. The decking was 3/4" ply and the carpet was from Menards with the marine backing. The hinges I uses were aluminum hinges from McMaster Carr. They were the cheapest I found and the cost of shipping was awesome. I bought one six foot and one three foot hinge. I plan on mounting the trolling motor this weekend, I installed the base for it tonight. I also need to wire my switch panel i bought. Right now the only electric items on the boat are running lights, depth finder, and trolling motor (which I'll connect directly to the battery). The 40hp mercury is pull start (for right now
I have not started on the back deck as of yet. Below are the pictures, as well as one more I found of the boat after I gutted everything. Also, my dad was able to locate some marine rivets, which allowed me to plug some of the holes the boat had accumulated over the years, as well as replace a few of the regular rivets I put in it.
I do have a couple questions for you guys. Do i need to put an inline fuse or breaker between the battery and trolling motor? If so, what size would I need? I'll be installing a 55lb MoterGuide 12v. Also, when I charge my battery, do I need to disconnect everything from it first? Thanks for any info!