Rub Rails?

How difficult is it to replace the rub rail on a boat? Thinking about putting a new strip on my ranger and didnt know if it was something I should hire out. It looks like I will have to take off the motor to do so, which makes me think it might not be worth it!

thanks for any advice

Brandon

Mostly it depends on how it is attatched. Most rub rails are 2 parts. One part is an insert and the other is the backing. Some of the inserts are just rope, others are a rubber insert. You would need to pull a section of the insert out so that you can determine how the backing is attached. The backing on my Skeeter was riveted on. This is a pain to replace as you would have to drill out and replace about 200 rivets. Some are screwed on, this would be easier. If only the insert needs replaced then that would be the easiest if you can find some that will work. I woul dstart at the transom and pull out the insert from that area and see how it is installed.