My boat is older (1986 model). With boat prices today, it is becoming apparent I will not be getting a different boat anytime soon. So I am wondering about some small, cheaper upgrades to make it feel new again. I am thinking maybe new gauges, new steering wheel, stuff like that. Anybody done stuff like this? Suggestions? Thanks.

I have an 89 model boat to...new carpet and seats might help it feel new again...also have you ever thought about wrapping it? 

Gauges are cheap but not really going to make the boat look better unless yours are in really bad shape.

 

buffing out the fiberglass is about the best way to make an old boat look newer. There is a definite skill to it. You need someone experienced to show you how. 
painting the lower unit and coweling really sharpen a boats look also. Most paint is available in spray cans for motors. Light coats. Water sanding. And buffing when the final coat is dry for weeks.

Carpet is either expensive to pay to have done or very labor intensive to do yourself but most definitely will make an old boat sparkle the most.

 

 

New graphics can make an older boat look newer again.  You can sometimes find OEM graphics for sale on on the web.  If not, there's plenty of decal places that produce giant vinyl stickers with generic designs for not much money - you just have to make them fit.  These are 78" x 8 " for $39.  

 

 

These are 72" x 9" for $59.

 

 

 

LED light strips are cheap, and you can do interior lights, front nav lights, even trailer bunk LED lights.