1984 Outrage 18 Planning Many Projects for Boat To Be Purchased

[Spc337]

I'm planning to purchase a classic 1984 Outrage 18. There are a few problems I want to address which may include cleaning up the existing wiring. I'm a neat freak so I want to run the wires cleanly and zip tie to keep them tidy. The existing battery was moved under the console and I would like to add a second battery on a switch while allowing both to be charged with only one to start the motor.

I'm suspect this is not a unique activity but I haven't found any projects specifically on this and curious if someone has completed a similar task.

I also want to remove the existing stereo that was put in the console and replace that with a marine radio. Neither the RPM nor MPH gauges are working so I would like to restore those as well. I also need to install a Fish/GPS and Radio Antenna. The Nav lights work but are very week so I may want to update them with newer versions from Specialty Marine which are LED. I would also like to consider moving the nav light from the console to the stern.

I suspect the fuel tank is original so I also need to check the hoses. Not sure what the cost to replace that is should it need it, but if I end up lifting the console, it seems like the right time to replace that as well.

I was a little confused why there are two trim controls, one on the throttle and one just below the throttle control on the console (see picture).

Lastly, was wondering if I should be replacing the engine key with one that has a safety cord. Seems like a good idea.

I'll probably also install a Bimini - ideally with a wind shield as I'm in the Pacific Northwest..

Not sure if trim tabs are necessary on this boat but that could be another consideration in the future..

Lot's of projects :)

Any advise and links to previous projects would be great.

Thanks

[jimh]

For advice of electrical systems for small boats start a second thread on that topic and related questions in the SMALL BOAT ELECTRICAL forum at

viewforum.php?f=9

Overhaul of the electrical power distribution on older small boats is a popular topic there. Discussions about primary power wiring with more than one battery are covered there, too.

[jimh]

The cost of a replacement fuel tank from the OEM (Florida Marine Tanks) will be about $1,000. Visit their website or ask for a quote to get a more accurate cost of the tank. Shipping will be expensive.

[jimh]

Rubber fuel hose should be clearly marked with their date of manufacture. Hoses made prior to c.1987 may not be tolerant of alcohol-gasoline fuel.

[jimh]

If you purchase a boat with the original navigation lamps supplied by Boston Whaler, it would be prudent to retain them in preference to buying knockoff replacements.

[jimh]

All the many and widely varied topics you raise in this initial thread regarding the boat you may purchase in the future have been the subjects of many prior discussions. I recommend you do further research on these topics in the archives using this search page:

http://continuouswave.com/whaler/oldForum/

After you purchase the boat, and if you have questions, it is better to ask each question in a separate thread, rather than ask multiple questions on a wide variety of topics in one thread.