Suggestions on deck replacement

[Entourage]

I'm replacing the deck in my 79 sceptre. I've never done this before but pretty handy and familiar with whats underneath. Should i attempt this on my own? what advice can someone give me who has done this before. I want to learn how to do fiberglass repairs. Finding someone in the cape cod area that is reasonable is like pulling teeth Any advice would be appreciated.

[htillman]

Why the replacement? I am going to do the same next winter on my Sceptre - raise height and change configuration of hatches. Just curious for your reasons and maybe we can help each other.

[FELLOW-SHIP]

Many of the guys here have redone their decks. Usually the method is different depending on if your boat is the 20’ or the 23 footer. On the 20 footer most guys raise the deck thus the method is to remove the whole thing and build up the stringers higher and then replace the entire thing. On the 23 footers most guys have just removed the top glass then removed the balsa lamination replaced the lamination and either put the old skin back or re glassed a new top skin. There are a number of forum threads and pictures showing both methods. You can also look under SeaCraft Galleries and check out your boat length for some pictures there. If I had to do it over again today I just might raise my deck on my 23 footer because of the motor’s today keep getting heavier and heavier and if my deck were lets say 3” to 4” higher than it currently is that would be a Good Thing.

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Just for the Grins

[Entourage]

The deck is becoming disattached to the stringers, and the tank was replaced and i found alot of wet foam so i want to clean that up. Do you guys spray the gelcoat? Also what do you use to attach the new wood to the stringers?