1975 24' Fiberform

[RonSmith]

I just purchased a 1975 fiberform. I am looking for ANY information I can get. It needed some exterior wood work so I ripped out the old wood. What I am trying to do is figure out how to configure it now. It is a flybridge and the deck is small the way it was configured. Is it more effective to lay wood down again or try to get a fiberglass house customize something? Last owner had it raised a bit and I am looking to make as much room as possible. Also the boat had been prepped for painting, and as this is my first boat, most of the stuff I am reading is confusing. Do you paint and then gelcaot or do you just gelcoat or paint? The previous owner patched all of the knicks. Does anyone know where I can get more info on Fiberforms. I know that Bayliner bought them in the early 80's, but not much else. Any info is very helpful. Thanks

 

[snapperbait]

Re: 1975 24' Fiberform

Hi Ron.. As for information on Fiberform boats, sorry to say that you probably won't find much other than boats for sale..<br /><br />All is not lost though... Most fiberglass boats are constructed in the same way with the same materials so information on how to make repairs is readily available... <br /><br />As for your paint/gelcoat question.. In your situation, paint and possibly some type of primer is all you need (primer depends on the paint you use)... Whatever brand of paint you decide to use to do the job, stick with the manufacturers "system"... Use only those products specified by the manufacturer like their special primers, thinners, ect. ..<br /><br /> No gelcoat... Don't even concern yourself with it... Gelcoat mainly is used durring the building of the boat in the mold.. It can be used when re-finishing a hull, but it is not user friendly and is very difficult to work with..<br /><br />Have a look through the Iboats Mega mall and look for some books on fiberglass repair and painting.. Theres a bunch of great books out there on those subjects to help set you on the right track..

 

[RonSmith]

Re: 1975 24' Fiberform

Thanks for that info. Any info about the other question?

 

[Solittle]

Re: 1975 24' Fiberform

Ron - Could you be more specific in the way the boat is now and what you want to do? Your description was not clear.

 

[RonSmith]

Re: 1975 24' Fiberform

From the cabin to the stern is about 5.5 feet. After about 3 feet from the cabin there is a rise where the engine is. It goes up about 18 inches. The engine is centered on the boat and I would like to lower on both the right and left sides of the engine. As I am reading it seems like placing some marine quality plywood and covering it with deck paint is best. I think I can simply lower the bracing. A couple of other questions though....<br /> Who makes good no skid paint? <br /> And does anyone have any opinion on PPG paint for the hull? (Not bottom paint) <br /><br /> Thanks

 

[Solittle]

Re: 1975 24' Fiberform

Marine ply is fine. To get the non skid effect I sprinkle some sand over the wet surface and go over it with a roller. You can also mask out any areas that you choose with tape.