Searider refit

[daithi]

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]

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]

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]

I stripped out the console and cleaned up the boat.

[daithi]

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]

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]

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]

Excellent project, Daithi. Your Searider looks really good.

[Keith Hart]

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

Keith (I'm jealous) Hart

[Daniel TD5]

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