Pontoon Boat & Deck Boat Forum

Hey guys, I have a new to me, 2003 Sweetwater Challenger 200ES.

It had original everything and a Yamaha 40HP four stroke.

The first thing on my list was to lengthen the interior and replace the furniture. It has a vinyl floor already installed so I may be able to save it though it has seen better days.

As of now I have removed the old front furniture and put in my extension railing pieces.

The extension panels I got from FenceForPontoon do not match in anyway to the original railings. I have not completely finished the install on the panels because I am debating on which way to mount them- either panel side in or panel side out. Panel side in amplifies the color and height differences but panel side out os opposite of the factory railing. Either way my OCD is not capable of a good choice of what is less bad- it is what it is.

I have made an Instagram page for it to keep all the steps catalogued, it's url is:
https://www.instagram.com/puckettspontoon

Please let me know what you would do as far as the railing extension panels, metal side in or out?

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Before I do the furniture, I am wondering what looks 'less bad' as far as the extension panels are concerned.

I can do then panel side in to match the factory method, or panel side out which better hides the darker color of the frame.

What do you guys think?

Great project! I'd install the new panels the same way as the original ones. Frame on the outside.

I agree with Steve on the panels. Dang, you are off to a good start!!

Have you started bolting down yet, or is that just a mock-up? I think I would replace the vinyl now and get it over with since you have a tone of holes everywhere. The woven mat I used is amazing but it is about 20% more in $ over the stippled vinyl like you have.

As far as the different aluminum color, get a pack of scotch bright pads (green Heavy Duty, not Blue), some White Vinegar mixed with Simple green 50/50 and a little Spic & Span powder. Scrub those frames and see if they lighten up. Do the underside first and see if you like the results.

The bottom bolts are just hand tight. I have yet to drill and bolt the fence panels together, was waiting on which way to install the extension pieces.

I don't think so will try to scuff up the frame,it's a pretty thick metallic silver powder coating. I may paint the rest of the frame one day, maybe over the winter.

Thanks for the input guys!

Finished up the railings, did panel side in, and put in the benches. Waiting on my armrest, but the front half of the boat is pretty much done beside making covers for the big holes.

Welcome What lake?

Looks good....might I suggest these to cover the holes:

https://www.amazon.com/SEAFLO-Black-Cir ... 4130005567

I think they make these down to fit 3" holes.

Excellent work!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you for the deck plate suggestion, I think they will work great!

We are in central Tennessee, Nashville area. We usually go to Tim's Ford Lake.