1958 Uniflite 17'

[Ken Asplund]

I just purchased a 1958 17' Runabout, it has a 1978 Running Merc 80 that needs minor work. My plan is to do a restoration. I think I know the answer to this question but I will ask anyway. The rub rail is damaged beyond repair in 1 spot and would like to replace, I assume I will need to grind off all of the screws from the inside where the top deck meets the hull to remove, I also assume the anchor screw heads clip into the back of the rub rail. My thought was after removal, replace anchor screws holding the deck and hull, then install New rub rail over the seam with surface mount screws.  Has anyone ever done this and do you have any input? Thanks!