I set my son up with a cherrywood caster a couple years ago and have had no complaints so far. Casts great and has pulled in plenty of keepers. :-) I'm starting to get in rod building now though so I don't know how many more factory rods I will buying in the future. Just something about...
As far as what order to put things back in I think it really comes down to personal preference and whether or not you want visible deck screws over the carpet. As far as the switching mechanisms and car stereo https://www.rocktheboataudio.com/ has some great options that will give you more of...
I'm looking forward to see how your boat turns out when its all said and done. I'm looking at a Sea King v hull for a project right now. Still not sure if I want to go with VHull or flatbottom though.
Cheers,
Personally, I would do that all out of the boat so it's easier to get to your board ends. Also, about your leveling question as long as it is fairly level you should be ok. Screwing down your decking will tighten everything up but as close to level as possible is ideal. Wood tolerances are...