After seeing the close up I see it's not my old boat...sure does bring back memories though.

I remember cutting out for a glovebox thru that aluminum panel and the deck at once with a jigsaw

Plus
many other projects large and small, including keeping the engine repaired with 7.5 lbs. of boost and 5600 RPM and
no innercooler 
Good luck to him with the restovation! Randy