I have just finished one of my SX77 LILLOOET conversions. This one had a damaged bow, no lifeboats, no masts or ramp supports etc, so I had to do some repairs and scratch building.
As it is a spare, I have added it to my Triang Lookalike fleet and thus sprayed her up overall in grey - ie no decks painted. I have added a host of vehicles that may not be 100% accurate - but they fill up the deck area and look OK.
A few photos attached showing the repair/restoration/conversion for your enjoyment.