So I bought a "project" boat today--a 1984 14' AMF Trac cat. I took a chance for $300 and nabbed both the boat and trailer. What attracted me was the boat's decent Portsmouth ratings for its size (like a Hobie 14' Turbo) and its larger hull capacity (which was a priority for me for crew and avoiding pitchpoles). Anyway, lots of little things to address on the boat, but I'd like to ask about a few right off the bat.

1) It has some old vinyl striping that's partially scratched off and messy. Is it tough to restripe, or what's best to do here?

2) Has anyone ever repainted a hull w/ one-part epoxy paint and been satisfied w/ the end result and durability? (Something like EasyPoxy or Interlux)

3) The hulls were stored w/ quite a lot of water in them (I poured about a bucket out of each). I'm planning to find the leaks, but does the hull need to be dried out via an access port (of which there isn't one currently, just an end plug)? Or will it be OK now that the water is out?

4) Regarding access ports, is there any structural concern to go cutting into the top deck about a foot or foot and a half ahead of the forward crossbar? Is the end result after the port is installed just as solid as before w/ no port?

Thanks to anyone who can help on any of these. I'm sure more questions will be forthcoming!