1980 17' MONARK Quack Smacker Conversion

[dblbarrel]

Well, here we go!!!! I have been lurking around this forum getting ideas and building up my confidence to start a boat modification project. I have asked a few questions on this site and received good direction. So, last week I purchased a 1980 17' Monark bass boat w/ trailer...no motor. The boat had already been gutted for modification. It is a very straight hull with a solid transom. The trailer has a new 3500lb axle. When I got it to my inlaw's place, I....(I mean MotherNature) performed a leak test and found about 4-5 rivets that need replaced. The paint looks solid, so I may not take it down to bare metal. I may use the paint that's on it as my primer....Any thoughts? I'll be purchasing my sheet aluminum and a gas tank tomorrow. BTW, I have a side console with livewell if anyone's looking...I will post a few pics but I apologize in advance for the quality of the photos. Here is a list of the modifications I want to accomplish:
1. SC to CC/w SEAT DRY STORAGE
2. FRONT DECK WITH PERM UNDERDECK FUEL TANK, BATTERIES, LIVEWELL/GUNBOX,SEAT
3. REAR DECK WITH STORAGE, SEAT
4. 75HP SUZUKI REBUILT, TNT, VERT LIFT JACK PLATE
5. NATGEAR CAMO PAINT JOB
6. YETI 65

 

[KRS62]

My guess is that it would be easiest (and best) to paint it now.

KRS

 

[dblbarrel]

The hull is definately getting painted first.

 

[Pweisbrod]

Cool, nice looking boat. I can't wait to see what another duckboat guy will come up with, I haven't started my build yet either.

 

[Brine]

Congrats on the rig. I'd scuff it up and paint over it. Use the self etching primer on any bare aluminum.

Have you tried bucking the rivets vs replacing them yet?

 

[dblbarrel]

Should be starting the bucking process 2 weeks. I will be replacing what needs replaced with those threaded gasketed rivets. I have also decided to apply steel flex to the bottom. Not for sealing purposes but for performance reasons. I picked up a gas tank yesterday and 14 sheets of 1/8" thick 5' X 4' aluminum dirt cheap. Can't wait to get it going!

 

[GGUG]

Can you post a pic of live well and dimensions. I am interested but need to know if it will work for my project. Thanks and nice boat.

 

[dblbarrel]

Found a 84 model Suzuki DT85 with TNT and controls. Going to look at it tomorrow. It's mounted on a boat and can be run in a big tank. What should I be looking for? Also can you extend the controls? What's it worth?