OK, been awhile since I posted a progress report... so here goes:
- Deck went down with no issues. 1 layer CSM on bottom, 2 layers CSM/1 layer 1708/1 layer CSM on top, plus 1708 tabbing.
- Drilled holes and foamed the entire hull after the first layer of top CSM went down (took approx 32lbs of 2lb foam)
- Painted the deck and motor well with 3 coats of gel coat. Went on fantastically.
- Test fit the motor and gimbal housing.... no issues

- Engine updates: Replaced all ignition components (coil, dist., rotor, wires, plugs), rebuilt starter and alternator, new belts, added oil drain kit, new oil filter and oil, new fuel filter, new thermostat.
- Painted the cap, seat bases, and consoles (primed, then sprayed 4 coats of enamel per wog's Sticky)... not so pleased with this result. Bought a new HPLV gun and had a hard time getting a good finish, and it still seems very prone to scratching... but I'm picky, it looks pretty good overall. Would do gel coat if I had to do it again.
- Final mounted gimbal and dropped in the motor. Aligned and tightened to spec. Smooth sailing!
- Got the cap situated above the hull, and dry fit the seat bases and consoles.
Next up:
- Paint the hull stripe. Going with enamel again, this time a nice dark blue.
- Then, I'll set the cap and begin mounting everything down.
- Last big repair will be going thru the drive to replace seals, bearings, and water pump.
- Then, adding some Bennett Bolt trim tabs.
Wish me luck... might actually splash this thing before winter gets here! ;-)