Searider refit

daithi · 12 May 2004, 21:39

I bought this Searider 5.4 back in Feb. The boat was on Lough Derg(River Shannon). The general condition of the tubes, hull, deck and transom were good. However the console was a homemade wooden monstrosity which needed to be completely ripped out. Electrics, steering cable, fuel line, fuel tank etc all needed replacing.

Pics of the orig layout showing standing double console, this console was set quite far back and took up the full width of the boat. The wood had rotted out in places and the test ride before purchasing was precarious to say the least.

daithi · 12 May 2004, 21:43

The boat had a foul line, like lime scale along the water line and on the prop and engine leg. This was easy enough to clean off with a gel boat cleaner

ollyit · 12 May 2004, 21:44

must go like stink with engine on the back?!?! - have you got a nice new console then installed then mate? - would love to see pics if you have -

daithi · 12 May 2004, 21:48

I stripped out the console and cleaned up the boat.

daithi · 12 May 2004, 21:55

As luck would have it the original owner had already sourced a jockey console but had not got around to doing the work. I had to cut out the holes for the speedo, rev counter and steering. I dismantled the steering cleaned up the parts and re greased the internal cogs.

daithi · 12 May 2004, 22:02

Got the console painted orange, didn't have the patients for that job so got it done in a paint shop using marine paints and finish. Fitted all the electrics VHF, depth finder, battery switch and switch/fuse box. Lots of searching this site for info on wiring info...

daithi · 12 May 2004, 22:20

Fitted new steering cable to console and screwed console to deck with s/s self tapping screws, washers and plenty of Silkaflex. Placed the console in the orig Avon location to balance the weight of the 115. Sourced new 70L petrol tank and also screwed to deck with straps. Fitted new fuel line. Fitted new VHF Ariel. Also strapped in a watertight storage box which can be removed easily. Got engine serviced (new mounts $$$$). Still have losts to do....upholstery, S/S handholds, windscreen, more seating, general equip but it has been a great experience so far and I couldn't have done it without the help of this site...Thanks

First test runs today went ok....

Richard B · 12 May 2004, 22:23

Excellent project, Daithi. Your Searider looks really good.

Keith Hart · 13 May 2004, 06:51

You have got a VERY practical sea going RIB there Daithi, well done.

Keith (I'm jealous) Hart

Daniel TD5 · 13 May 2004, 07:14

very nice boat looks great you did a top class job glad to see the kids out with you hope you have lots of fun

ollyit · 13 May 2004, 09:00

I'll try to model my project on yours mate (smaller avon sr4) -

good work - and thanks for posting pics

Naked Dave · 13 May 2004, 09:37

Be proud mate, you have done a fantastic job!!!

(pssssssssssssst!...wanna job with "Naked Rib's?")

DM · 13 May 2004, 11:28

Nice job. I hope you enjoyed the refit as much as the one I did a couple of years back. Being built like a brick outhouse, the Searider really does lend itself to a DIY refit. mine was fitted with a 115hp V4 Yamaha and was clocked at 46 knots. Wish I'd never sold it.

DM

Rogue Wave · 13 May 2004, 11:36

I am gonna be overhauling my hull soon. I am envious of yoiurs cos I know my wont be that good.

jwalker · 13 May 2004, 11:41

A nice wee refit. Just get out there and enjoy it.

gavin · 13 May 2004, 20:42

Excellent job, we too have one of those tanks, pricey but good capacity,
look here for set top idea simple, resined ply, 5 inch dense foam, covered in pvc leatherete
http://www.rib.net/forum/showthread....y+seat+project
Its going to be a good one, the boat looks in great shape a good buy, and nice job on the console
is that Howth Slip

daithi · 13 May 2004, 20:57

Gavin, Thanks for your advise at the start of the project. I used OB marine for the engine servicing and got good help and assistance. Yes thats Howth on Wednesday afternoon.