3Squids '79 Center Console thread

[3 Squids]

My first post on this wonderful site was more of a "saying hello" thread that was turning more into a build thread so I figured I'd just go ahead and make a thread just for my maintenance and modifications to my '79 V20.

Here she is as I picked her up.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/BC6F649F-1FB7-4A83-90CF-569E7722CD0F_zpspuyb7tci.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/BC6F649F-1FB7-4A83-90CF-569E7722CD0F_zpspuyb7tci.jpg.html)


It was obvious the purple had to go. My first thought was the whole vessel had to be painted but as I removed the purple decals it became much easier to bear the green.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/CFB425ED-666F-4640-A693-CA8301E25944_zpstwkihphl.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/CFB425ED-666F-4640-A693-CA8301E25944_zpstwkihphl.jpg.html)


After the decals were removed I put a borrowed cowl on the motor to get rid of the purple existing one.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/A12633CE-8EF1-43D1-AC25-5BA09380D29D_zpsfszizbwd.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/A12633CE-8EF1-43D1-AC25-5BA09380D29D_zpsfszizbwd.jpg.html)

My immediate plans are:
Ditching the rest of the purple
Powdercoating the T-top white
Hardtop to replace the purple canvas
Then probably using it this summer. Next winters plans are TBD depending on how fall rock season goes which will mean I gotta find me a set of curtains.

Here's the rest of the pics I have of the boat to date. I will post more as I work on her. Should be a fun project.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/A889EB34-5917-4A85-B7B3-5325E78542E9_zps3dtzf2iz.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/A889EB34-5917-4A85-B7B3-5325E78542E9_zps3dtzf2iz.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/0FBCF5BD-E7C7-401A-890B-34DC1C0F7ADD_zps21qa3e8j.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/0FBCF5BD-E7C7-401A-890B-34DC1C0F7ADD_zps21qa3e8j.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/FF2547F5-00B7-4BE1-A485-C0A70A6F6D67_zpskgdvrmpm.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/FF2547F5-00B7-4BE1-A485-C0A70A6F6D67_zpskgdvrmpm.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/FC63E032-75D4-48EB-9460-F5F3E3F75FC2_zpst1h51ebo.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/FC63E032-75D4-48EB-9460-F5F3E3F75FC2_zpst1h51ebo.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/8C1388EB-6B8F-4FCD-9320-E894B0D9BB7B_zpss8ddv2jp.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/8C1388EB-6B8F-4FCD-9320-E894B0D9BB7B_zpss8ddv2jp.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/79F5C283-AC04-406F-B4A8-1972125C6896_zpsfqtv5fda.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/79F5C283-AC04-406F-B4A8-1972125C6896_zpsfqtv5fda.jpg.html)

[3 Squids]

Today I pulled the electronics box off to see what my options were to get the purple off. It's made of wood and seems it was glassed over and painted. I sanded down the surface good and put a coat of paintable bedliner with a fine texture finish. That's drying tonight and tomorrow I plan on painting it white. Depending on how much this hardtop is going to cost I may be wasting my time as the plan is to mold a box into the top. But I'm waiting on some motor parts to come in so I had to do something constructive.

[3 Squids]

The PO filled some holes on the top of the cap with what appears to be Bondo. My thoughts wet to sand that out, fill them with resin and roll off white non-slip to the tops of the gunnels. What are you guys thought on KiwiGrip? Looks like a good product. I've read a power washer could hurt it but I've never had to pressure wash any of my boats.

[3 Squids]

Got the electronics box done this afternoon. Just in the nick of time, thunderstorms started moving on in. Nothing more eerie then holding onto a stainless T-top while lightning lights up the sky. Anyways it's not perfect but it will hold me over til I can either buy one or get a hardtop made. Still haven't made that decision.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/2660255E-3F71-4FE3-8732-6ED6AC970392_zpsgm2ctmvw.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/2660255E-3F71-4FE3-8732-6ED6AC970392_zpsgm2ctmvw.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/57D41E9E-4F94-4904-AD30-827F4853375C_zpsnopxvp6i.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/57D41E9E-4F94-4904-AD30-827F4853375C_zpsnopxvp6i.jpg.html)

[the daydreamer]

my 1st v20 was a 79. I liked the two boxes in the front as they were a good place for the wife and her friends to sit. looks like a great boat and I am sure you will loce it concrats and keep the pic coming!!!

[3 Squids]

I thought the same thing for the front boxes. I have 3 small children so that would be a perfect spot for them to sit. I'm in the process of trying to design some sort of pad for them now.

[3 Squids]

Sad day. I had to put the boat on stands so I could put my Striper back on the trailer to try and get her sold. Don't really want to buy a trailer until the Striper sells. I found a few cheap ones that need work on Craig's but I'd rather spend a little more on a nice trailer. So don't look like she will be in the water soon as I'd like. But at least I got the Striper for now.

[draglink]

Squids, I am about 30 mins south of you. GREAT looking V. The green is growing on me! I usually boat in the York, but go to New Point every now and then, maybe I will see you out there!

LOVE my 79! (3 kids also)

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a49/draglink/2014-09-06_12.58.52_zpsmttuln9f.jpg

[3 Squids]

Yes we will be at New Point this summer I'm sure. Might even make it out there this weekend but I'll have my Striper out. . We will definitely have to make sure we end up there on the same day at some point. We make a run up to Yorktown usually a couple times a summer. Take the kiddos to B&J's for icecream.

[draglink]

^^^^ sounds good to me! I will be there if it EVER stops raining and warms up! In the York we hang out around the mouth of Sara Creek. Close to Yacht Haven and Crab Deck

[3 Squids]

^^^^ sounds good to me! I will be there if it EVER stops raining and warms up! In the York we hang out around the mouth of Sara Creek. Close to Yacht Haven and Crab Deck

I know abouts where that is. We will definitely have to check it out. But yea definitely got to get through this rain. I was looking through some of your pics and seen your Wagoneer. Did or do you work some where in Newport News? I swear I used to see that truck down there a lot.

[draglink]

I know abouts where that is. We will definitely have to check it out. But yea definitely got to get through this rain. I was looking through some of your pics and seen your Wagoneer. Did or do you work some where in Newport News? I swear I used to see that truck down there a lot.

Yep, I run a flooring company in Newport News. My showroom and warehouse are in Oyster Point right across from UPS.

I used to daily drive it until a couple years ago. Now I drive it 1 - 2 days a week.

[3 Squids]

Yep, I run a flooring company in Newport News. My showroom and warehouse are in Oyster Point right across from UPS.

I used to daily drive it until a couple years ago. Now I drive it 1 - 2 days a week.


Now I know where I've seen it. Tidewater Floors right? I was Canaday Ind.'s foreman for 7 years. Now I'm back on the middle penninsula subbing.

[draglink]

Now I know where I've seen it. Tidewater Floors right? I was Canaday Ind.'s foreman for 7 years. Now I'm back on the middle penninsula subbing.

No kidding?!! Yep, Tidewater Floors. We were bought by Richmond Decorating 4 years ago when I took over. Ok, yeah, I know Dave C. His brother Kirk still does some work for me. I haven't seen Todd C in years.

Small world!! I see you live in Cobbs Creek. I have a buddy near Hallieford, my brother lives in Port Haywood

[3 Squids]

Yea I think Todd got out the flooring biz a while back. He was having a lot of back problems. I still see Kirk around Gloucester every once in a while. I loved working for Dave I just wanted to move on to something with more of a future. Plus I was tired of getting blamed for all the dumb **** the guys I supervised did but yet when I tried to correct them I was the *******. I'm subbing for a store now that's been around for 40 years and the plan is for me to buy it when the owner retires and I'll just let everyone else go do the hard stuff.

[steplift20]

Very colorful boat I will tell you that sure don't look like a 79 the green is growing on me too think of this if you did break down there would be no trouble finding you

[3 Squids]

Very colorful boat I will tell you that sure don't look like a 79 the green is growing on me too think of this if you did break down there would be no trouble finding you

Doesn't look like a '79??

[smokeonthewater]

We lived in Newport News for a while when I was a toddler... My sisters were born there... We moved to Kansas for me to start school....

Small world indeed.

[3 Squids]

Had to deal with the weather and got the ol girl on a trailer today. Picked up a solid '93 loadmaster for $500. Had all new rollers and new tires. Don't think I did too bad other than someone painted it red over the galvy. I may have to spray it black or silver. As I get rid of the purple the last thing I need to do is throw red in the mix. I know that sounds silly but that's just how I am I guess.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/6527E6FB-192A-44AA-9308-E823BE54C904_zpscwcx1xr1.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/6527E6FB-192A-44AA-9308-E823BE54C904_zpscwcx1xr1.jpg.html)

I had to make a few adjustments to get the rollers off the chines. I got that all straight but I think I have a bit too much tongue weight. Looks like I may have to bump the axle ahead a bit. I'm gonna take it to my buddy's race shop and put the tongue on one of his scales and see what I got. Anybody know about how much tongue weight I need? I guess the best thing would be to put it on 3 scales (under each tire and tongue jack) to get the exact weight. I read the tongue should be 7% of the total weight but not sure if that's just the boat or boat and trailer.

Anyways right now this is where my rear rollers are sitting. Should I try to get them closer to the transom or should this be good?

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/1FF1A1CF-4D83-4B77-AC21-6849E5E05B13_zpsyfjpqmfd.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/1FF1A1CF-4D83-4B77-AC21-6849E5E05B13_zpsyfjpqmfd.jpg.html)

[3 Squids]

.

[3 Squids]

Man, forum has been quiet the past few day. Guess I'll break the ice. Finally got some work done on the V.

Stripped it of all the rest of the purple crap. Canvas is at the upholsterer getting a dove grey canvas made up. Also the purple front cushion in front of the console will be getting recovered also.

Ordered a hatch door to put up on the bow where the purple plywood homemade door was. I ordered a bit bigger hatch so I'll have to trim the glass out some but I think the bigger door will be nice.

Also popped out the fishing rod boxes and am getting those prepped for paint. That will complete the de-purpleizatiion of the green machine. Should have some pics of the progress soon. If I get the canvas and seat cushion back this week I'm hoping to take her on the maiden voyage this weekend. Spent all this weekend out on my Striper and I'm itching to get the V out there.

[Troutkiller2006]

slowly but surely, rite. sometimes the finish line seems close, some times it feels miles away. keep at it man. and post more, i need the motivation

[Jeb]

It HAS been very quiet on here!

I appreciate seeing your progress, too. I'm a fan of the Green Machine.

[bradford]

Sounds good. I kinda like the green, the purple would def have to go.

Look forward to seeing the progress.

[3 Squids]

Thanks for the words of encouragement. I have the boat covered up and haven't really gotten to work on it because of all the rain we've had. :rain: Looks like it's going to be dry the rest of the week though HALLELUJAH!! Also I got a couple very interested people coming to take a look at my Striper which if I could just get that sold then I'd have no choice but to get cranking on the V. And I'll have a few extra bucks to fool with it also.

Told the wifey we're gonna have to go ahead and invest in a carport for the boat as I feel it will be a good investment to protect the old girl. The boat has been kept in dry storage for so long I'd hate to leave it out in the weather now. I found a nice used one on Craig's with enclosed sides for $500 but it's only 12' tall at the peak and I haven't checked but I'm pretty sure the boat sits taller than that. But I don't think a new one will be much more than that so we'll see.

Might try to put the new hatch door in this evening but everyone in the house has come down wth some freak cold virus so hard to get motivated after working all day. But seeing the interest you guys got in the green beast (I wanted to call her Shrek but the wife won't let me) really makes me want to get going. Thanks again.

[Pipe_Dream]

Just catching up on recent posts and saw this. Well done, 3 Squids!

[3 Squids]

Well got the hatch done this evening. Turned out good other than it didn't cover the old hinge screw holes. I haven't sealed it in yet with LifeCaulk but that'll be easy enough. Still debating whether to keep it swinging down or have the door go up. Not sure yet what I'll keep in it yet. Currently it just has 2 tossables in it. Here's some before and after pics.

As I got it with the totally awesome green graphics
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/FC63E032-75D4-48EB-9460-F5F3E3F75FC2_zpst1h51ebo.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/FC63E032-75D4-48EB-9460-F5F3E3F75FC2_zpst1h51ebo.jpg.html)

Old door gone.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/E22D4ED2-3D68-42B9-95EC-F51F37A9C9D8_zps8ukqnbup.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/E22D4ED2-3D68-42B9-95EC-F51F37A9C9D8_zps8ukqnbup.jpg.html)

New hatch in with a little help from the Shop-Vac and Sonicrafter tool.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/0C9822E0-F3E3-42CF-9F69-713601F53E1C_zpsmxxq0rth.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/0C9822E0-F3E3-42CF-9F69-713601F53E1C_zpsmxxq0rth.jpg.html)

Door open. Much more room to access whatever finds its way in there.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/507BCBFE-2824-4794-9577-16B72BA8EC4A_zps6qbjebmo.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/507BCBFE-2824-4794-9577-16B72BA8EC4A_zps6qbjebmo.jpg.html)

[3 Squids]

Also on a side note I sold my Striper tonight so looks like I better get cranking on this. Plan on painting the rod boxes tomorrow and then I'll just be waiting on the upholsterer. Then we will get splashdown!!

[bradford]

I like it swinging down, easier to get at whatever is stowed in there without the door closing on you, looks good.

On the carport enclosure, I'd spend a few bucks for what you really want instead of wishing you had.

[3 Squids]

Big changes in the near future for the old girl. I can't wait!! And yes I'm gonna make y'all wait too. :news:

[Jeb]

That new hatch is a huge improvement. Looking great.

[3 Squids]

Gunnel boxes done. It blew me away that I never noticed the wood trim around it actually has a purple tint to it also. Up next to the white on the console it's not as noticeable. But for some reason next to the pewter you can definitely see purple. Not sure what to do about that. May have to live with it for now. The pewter is much darker in the pics than it actually is. I still have the cover draped over the t-top so pics had no light. Here's before and after.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/796B31C8-8470-4CEE-BF3C-02FAC913DD79_zpsptkcyclk.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/796B31C8-8470-4CEE-BF3C-02FAC913DD79_zpsptkcyclk.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/FF2547F5-00B7-4BE1-A485-C0A70A6F6D67_zpskgdvrmpm.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/FF2547F5-00B7-4BE1-A485-C0A70A6F6D67_zpskgdvrmpm.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-06/DA068F91-23F2-474F-8585-49A9D73EAB95_zpsfsgqjgq7.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-06/DA068F91-23F2-474F-8585-49A9D73EAB95_zpsfsgqjgq7.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-06/9C9EB7CD-B4C6-4867-BED1-832D1D30C732_zpsgh6beoud.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-06/9C9EB7CD-B4C6-4867-BED1-832D1D30C732_zpsgh6beoud.jpg.html)

Also got the hatch permanently mounted and sealed up good.

[SkunkBoat]

I had to make a few adjustments to get the rollers off the chines. I got that all straight but I think I have a bit too much tongue weight. Looks like I may have to bump the axle ahead a bit. I'm gonna take it to my buddy's race shop and put the tongue on one of his scales and see what I got. Anybody know about how much tongue weight I need? I guess the best thing would be to put it on 3 scales (under each tire and tongue jack) to get the exact weight. I read the tongue should be 7% of the total weight but not sure if that's just the boat or boat and trailer.

Anyways right now this is where my rear rollers are sitting. Should I try to get them closer to the transom or should this be good?



No reason to get closer to transom. You might even move the boat back to adjust the tongue weight. (somewhere just shy of 300 lbs.)

I got a new trailer last year and still haven't got the rollers right with the strakes. the problem is that the lowest set of strakes don't go all the way back but they set the boat position when you pull the boat up.
I tried different positions and they always seem to get caught on the middle strakes and twist.
I think the rollers are going to have to be pushed close together at the lowest position so they almost touch.

[Troutkiller2006]

ive always read and been told that tongue weight should be 10% 0f total weight. but i dont think there is an exact percentage formula cause very heavy trailers would put too much on the hitch and very light ones... how far back the axle assembly is will also affect more than just tongue weight. seems like it will affect the rate of the swing on the vertical axis among other things.

keep in mind also that weight placement will change with fuel load, gear, etc... i think 7-10% is a good starting point and probably good enough for our little boats. but i think it is also important to have the heaviest part of the load over the axles and just a bit forward. so keep that in mind too.

truthfully, you can and should put a good bit of thought into it but its gonna come down to feel and seat of pants adjustment. start at 7-10% and expect to make some minor adjustments to get it just where it feels right

[3 Squids]

Been a while. Been busy working and not playing unfortunately. However this happened today.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/DF3D19E1-C955-4ADD-9203-4E4B2A58B0E3_zpsak9hbvsc.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/DF3D19E1-C955-4ADD-9203-4E4B2A58B0E3_zpsak9hbvsc.jpg.html)

This was my big plan I was hiding unfortunately it didn't go as planned. Originally I was trading labor (floor work) for a hardtop and e-box from a local shop. But after I looked into it a bit I realized I was getting screwed. Turned out I could get the top from the same manufacturer for over 1/3 of the price this guy was "hooking me up" with. So I've been too busy to go and get one made but turns out a buddy of mine had one that was 6 months old and the owner went with a different top. It's a cored 5x7. It had a tuna tower on it so my buddy's gonna repair those spots for me. They also notched part of it for rod holder and he's not a fan of that so he's gonna fix that also. Best part is he also needs some floor work in his house so looks like this top all fixed up is just gonna cost me $200-$300 in materials for his floor. Sounds like a good deal to me.

[bradford]

Sweet!

[3 Squids]

Sweet!

Sweet indeed. Also got my console seat cushion back. Turned out great. Now I just need to make bases for the 2 areas up front for her to make matching cushions and I'll be good to go.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/AE689874-90B4-4650-AC9A-3D0F6254A651_zps5lgfn3ce.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/AE689874-90B4-4650-AC9A-3D0F6254A651_zps5lgfn3ce.jpg.html)

Gonna clean the girl up and take a ride tomorrow. If all goes well we're gonna head to Urbanna and watch the fireworks from her in the PM. I love watching the fireworks from the water, even if they aren't real close.

[3 Squids]

Took it for a ride this weekend and pretty sure I toasted the motor. But I'll get it straight. Just nice to finally take her for a ride. Definitely a much smoother ride then my Striper.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-07/FB5047FF-A7C7-4CE0-AFED-50A6394B0B2C_zpsup5jtmtu.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-07/FB5047FF-A7C7-4CE0-AFED-50A6394B0B2C_zpsup5jtmtu.jpg.html)

She's back at the fiberglass mans place now getting the finishing touches on the top then I'll dig into what I'm going to do about the motor. As of right now leaning toward a powerhead rebuild if the block is salvageable. By the sounds of things (literally the sound) I think I'm going to be looking at getting a sleeve which would maybe alter my approach to getting her back running. Time will tell.

[3 Squids]

Back in the boathouse. Trying to talk the owner of the marina into putting a lift in this slip so I can just leave my boat in the marina and not have to paint the virgin bottom. It's not going to well though, well other than his suggestion that I pay for the lift. Tempting...

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-07/A9C96037-32A2-432E-B1A7-49CE98E10D36_zpsbhbbzizu.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-07/A9C96037-32A2-432E-B1A7-49CE98E10D36_zpsbhbbzizu.jpg.html)

[draglink]

Hey Squid....do you know Michael Hudgins? He is a good buddy of mine I grew up with. He live around Cobbs Creek near a marina....

[3 Squids]

Hey Squid....do you know Michael Hudgins? He is a good buddy of mine I grew up with. He live around Cobbs Creek near a marina....

Name sounds familiar. Probably know him if I saw him. There's too many darn Hudgins in this county to keep track of them all. Haha. If he lives in Cobbs Creek he probably lives near the Marina I keep my boat at. It's on Cobbs Creek Lane.

[draglink]

We grew up together down here at Gloucester Point. He moved up to Mathews about 20 years ago. I cant remember the name of his road....he works for Gloucester County, hangs out down at the marina on weekends...he can suck the bottom out of beer can faster than anyone!

[3 Squids]

Picked up a tandem axle trailer today. Needs some work but I only paid $200 for it. It's pretty solid other than some rust on the fenders and some of the hardware. Also needs some rollers and I'll probably replace the springs as they are pretty rusted. It's made by Calkins and seems to have a unique roller setup that I've never seen before. The guy I got it from bought it brand new and it was bought for his V-20. Unfortunately his boat got hung under a dock at low tide and sank so he has no need for the trailer any more. He said it was the easiest loading trailer he's ever owned so hopefully with just dumping a few bucks in it I'll have a nice trailer and I'll just sell Big Red. I'll post some pics soon.

[Striper80]

I had a Calkins trailer that came with my Grady. If it has this roller setup check those u shaped frames for rust really well. The front one on mine was rotted bad from the inside out and cracked on me. Mine was also a 1980 model so it was to be expected I guess.

[bradford]

Had one of those once, yes the front tube was rotted out. Depends a lot on regular care.

[3 Squids]

Since he told me about it I googled them and see the U shaped bars you're talking about but this one isn't quite like that. It seems solid but I know rotting from the inside out isn't really something you can see. There's a couple brackets I may have to get fabbed up. Not sure if it was a good buy yet or not. Depends on what kind of money I have to put in it.

[3 Squids]

Well the more I inspect this thing the more I think I may have bought a $200 frame and axles. The bars that run across the trailer that pivot seem to have alot of rust on them. Most of the hardware is shot and the brackets holding the rollers seem to be FUBAR. Main problem is that you can't just buy parts for the trailer. Not sure how hard it'd be to make it a bunk trailer being that there isn't really any cross braces between the frame rails. Well we will see what happens, for now it can sit behind the shed til I figure it out.

[3 Squids]

Well looks like the powerhead will be coming off this weekend and headed to get rebuilt. It's gonna cost me around $2k for parts and labor and that's everything new (Pistons, bearings, rings, gaskets etc.). I don't think that's too bad especially with the reputation this guy has. I've asked all of my boating freinds about him and they've all said the same thing, the dude is awesome.

I do kind of wish a new 4-stroke was in the cards right now but it's just not. Right now I'm trying to make a huge business move that will set me and my family's future up and the last thing I need to do right now is put myself in more debt then I already have. But I know with this motor that this boat will absolutely fly. And with this guys reputation I shouldn't have any major issues in the future as long as I do my part in the maintenance routine. Now I'm debating on going ahead and pulling the whole motor off and getting the transom redone even though the glass man thinks it'll be fine for a couple years. It appears there is just a little moisture around the 2 bottom motor holes but I guess I may as well get it taken care of now.

[draglink]

I talked to TeeRoy yesterday, sounds like you finally got BB? I was in the same boat as you(see what I did there?) and have never regretted building my 2.4. Nothing like screaming around at 6000+

[phatdaddy]

Sounds like you have a plan, if you have faith in the glass guy, I'd run the rebuilt motor a while before tackling the transom. That's the beauty of an outboard, only four bolts and a couple of quick disconnects holding it on.

On the trailer, looks like too many moving parts to me

[Destroyer]

Looking at the trailer I can see the problem instantly. You forget to hook up the engine and the driveshaft to the transmission....

[3 Squids]

I talked to TeeRoy yesterday, sounds like you finally got BB? I was in the same boat as you(see what I did there?) and have never regretted building my 2.4. Nothing like screaming around at 6000+

Yea I called BB last week and never heard back so Troy got a hold of him yesterday for me. I can't wait!! I know she's gonna scream.

Sounds like you have a plan, if you have faith in the glass guy, I'd run the rebuilt motor a while before tackling the transom. That's the beauty of an outboard, only four bolts and a couple of quick disconnects holding it on.

On the trailer, looks like too many moving parts to me

Still debating on the transom for now. Really it depends on the price he gives me which I'm still waiting for. Yes lots of moving parts on the trailer. I've read that they are nice loading trailers when they were new but this is far from new. Trying to figure out how to convert it to a bunk

Looking at the trailer I can see the problem instantly. You forget to hook up the engine and the driveshaft to the transmission....

That's what's wrong!!! Haha. Someone said "man that's a heck of a winch you got there". That's the new built TH350 I just picked up for my C-10 which I'm getting ready to sell to fund more boat projects. I never drive it anymore so might as well let someone else have some fun with her.

[bradford]

Sounds like you got a good engine man. If the glass man says run it that's what I would do.

That trailer looks like a medieval torture device. You did good on the price, would be worth having just to get rid of project hulls.

You'll see your C10 on Barrett Jackson in 20 years and wish you kept her.

[3 Squids]

Mike, we're supposed to pull the motor off this weekend at Troy's, you should ride out and check out the old girl.

[draglink]

Mike, we're supposed to pull the motor off this weekend at Troy's, you should ride out and check out the old girl.

My weekend is screwed up. Here is the plan. Boat Sat from 11-2:30pm. I have to be in for my nephews 6th Bday cookout at 3. Sunday I have to cart my 3 kids around and wont even get out. That said, if yall are working on it Sun I might be able to slide by.

[3 Squids]

Well it's been pretty humid so my glass guy is having alot of trouble getting my top as well as everything else he's working on done. I brought the boat home today and am going to yank the Merc off. Powerheads headed to get rebuilt and I'm going to go ahead and get the transom replaced. So when I get everything back and put together she'll be ready to slay some Stripers this fall.

[3 Squids]

Got some work done today. Boats back at the fiberglass man. Thinks maybe Wed he will start cutting into the transom. There is definitely moisture in there. I stuck a screwdriver into the lower bolt holes and could dig wet wood out pretty easily. It's a shame because according to the PO it was only done 2 years ago by a reputable Marina, but guess stuff happens. I don't think the rot will be spread far but I figure I might as well nip it in the bud now while I'm waiting to get the motor rebuilt.

And we have detachment.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-08/09275399-896E-46D9-8E3B-37975EDE0CC5_zpsnqqs4dtf.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-08/09275399-896E-46D9-8E3B-37975EDE0CC5_zpsnqqs4dtf.jpg.html)

I figured I'd find all sorts of goodies when I pulled the aluminum plate off but it all looked pretty solid.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-08/29AA96CE-D767-447C-A350-075DB840A353_zpswikz5rwo.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-08/29AA96CE-D767-447C-A350-075DB840A353_zpswikz5rwo.jpg.html)

Motor hanging around. Tomorrow I'll have to snap a pic of my $20 engine stand I built. Probably the most over engineered stand built to date (by the way I'm not an engineer), but she definitely handle the monster well.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-08/9DCB04AA-4D1B-4728-ADAA-8C7F268F972D_zpsjvxqmwwn.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-08/9DCB04AA-4D1B-4728-ADAA-8C7F268F972D_zpsjvxqmwwn.jpg.html)

[3 Squids]

Did some rearranging in my Photo Bucket which apparently changed the URL so all my pics are down. I'll get it back up soon. But anyways here's my $20 stand. Unbelievably sturdy.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/BD81ECEA-AAF5-4D7C-AB19-9B19B8B804F9_zpsicj85l8z.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/BD81ECEA-AAF5-4D7C-AB19-9B19B8B804F9_zpsicj85l8z.jpg.html)

[Destroyer]

Great engine. Nice stand. Well done. :)

[3 Squids]

I can't wait to get this thing back together. It screamed with a hurt motor, I only can imagine what she'll do hitting on all 6. Got the powerhead off tonight. Hopefully that'll head to get rebuilt tomorrow. Taking some cash to the glass man tomorrow to get him going. Seems to be all coming together. :time: Knock on wood.

[3 Squids]

Not much of an update. Motors at the motor man. Boats still at the glass man. He cut the skin off the transom last night and on the starboard side he started at the top and when he got to the chine water began to run out. Made it sound like a substantial amount. He then went along the bottom of the hull cutting and said water just kept coming out. He hasn't got the skin free of the wood yet but he pulled the top away and the wood is definitely shot. It's delaminating like crazy and is flaky.

Supposed to get the skin off tonight and try and figure where all the water is from. He cut the port side all the way down to the plug first, and not a drop of water came out. Seems something made a sort of pocket in the starboard side that it collected in. Just praying when he gets it out that the stringers and foam are ok.

[Destroyer]

Not much of an update. Motors at the motor man. Boats still at the glass man. He cut the skin off the transom last night and on the starboard side he started at the top and when he got to the chine water began to run out. Made it sound like a substantial amount. He then went along the bottom of the hull cutting and said water just kept coming out. He hasn't got the skin free of the wood yet but he pulled the top away and the wood is definitely shot. It's delaminating like crazy and is flaky.

Supposed to get the skin off tonight and try and figure where all the water is from. He cut the port side all the way down to the plug first, and not a drop of water came out. Seems something made a sort of pocket in the starboard side that it collected in. Just praying when he gets it out that the stringers and foam are ok.

Ummmm ... What is he cutting? The inside or the outside skin? The transom has a curve to it.. slight, but it's there. That's why most that cut the skin cut the inside one to maintain the curve.

[3 Squids]

He's cutting the outside. I questioned this also and he assures me it will be right. Said he's done a bunch of V's. Said something about using 3 layers of 1/2" instead of 2 layers of 3/4 to get the curve back. We shall see. He guarantees his work for life as long as I don't go drilling holes in the transom so if something is wrong he will fix it.

[phatdaddy]

hey squids, any chance u can get some photos. i know the guy doesn't want u hovering over him with a camera, but shots of whats under there might help some of us in the future.
thanks

[3 Squids]

Yea I'm supposed to get pics along the way.

Also got contacted today by the motor man. All looks well in the motor as far as the crank and block. He suggested new, oversized pistons. I told him he knows best and do whatever he wanted. Hopefully that'll be back together next week as well as my transom. Would love to have her in the water for Labor Day.

[3 Squids]

Well my glass guy has been feeling bad since it's been so hot so I went over to help get it going. Got the skin off and wow the smell. It was bad. Had some dry wood in high places but probably 85% was wet. It would seem someone put a full new transom with the 20" dropped area at some time. Then later someone put a section to build it up to hold the 25" motor.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/B4BF9BA0-023E-4354-8350-933C92143A2E_zpstd1c2vka.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/B4BF9BA0-023E-4354-8350-933C92143A2E_zpstd1c2vka.jpg.html)
You can see the rectangle section at the top where they updated the transom to 25". The inner piece of wood was cut exactly to the shape of the dropped section. The the outer piece was cut a bit bigger to overlap the seam.

I suspect it's not the original transom as it was cut about 2" smaller than it needed to be. Then they had some sort of hard rubbery material filling the void from the edge of the wood and the side of the hull. None of the wood had been laminated together and the 2 sheets were put together with crown staples. I'm highly doubt that Wellcraft did that.

Now to the real disturbing findings. On the outside of the stringers where they connect to the transom there were holes cut through the inner skin. So any moisture that came to the stern on the outside of the stringers went right in the transom wood.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/6A24DB8C-C9A3-46F6-907C-395794F90646_zps55lfhgqz.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/6A24DB8C-C9A3-46F6-907C-395794F90646_zps55lfhgqz.jpg.html)

Here you can kind of see the hole. This is the starboard side. What really sucks is this also let the moisture to seep into the stringer. But he doesn't think it made its way far into the stringer. Tomorrow he's going to cut a section out of the inner skin and investigate more. And he said it will also give him better access to tie the stringers into the new transom well.

Here's about 1/2 of the nastiness pulled out.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/E88222B5-F180-42EC-934D-9A0F4DA39C7E_zps2jwsjgrj.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/E88222B5-F180-42EC-934D-9A0F4DA39C7E_zps2jwsjgrj.jpg.html)

We got all the big stuff out. Tomorrow he's gonna let the rest of the wood residue dry out and hit it with the sander to clean up the skin. Then start putting it all back together. He's going to lay another layer of glass to the inner skin making sure it's sealed up from everything else. He also plans on making some passages from outside of the stringers into the bilge for any water to drain into the bilge instead of the transom.

[3 Squids]

Also in the 3rd pic you can see the 2 scupper tubes coming out and close to right in the middle you can see about a 1" diameter hole that was cut into the inner skin. This also would let any moisture into the transom. As well as the holes from the 20" motor weren't sealed up on the inside. Plenty of ways for moisture to enter the transom. But the glass guy guarantees it won't be that way again.

[phatdaddy]

Wellcraft could have saved us all a lot of grief with a little more work. If they would have sealed the holes in the stringers with a little resin and glassed the top of the transom instead of the aluminum strips. But I guess they weren't built to go 30 something years.

[3 Squids]

Grinded the wood off the outer skin tonight. Gonna get the inner skin cleaned up tomorrow. It still had some wet spots and I figured that'd gum up the wheel pretty quickly. Should be dry by tomorrow evening. Then we will start glassing it all back together this weekend. My glass guy was working was another transom tonight glassing it all together and it's definitely more complicated then I thought it'd be. Glad I'm not going at this on my own that's for sure.

[3 Squids]

Got the inner skin cleaned up. I can't believe all the ways for water to get into the transom.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/0B10F448-F577-42FE-B50A-07BDE6AC80C0_zpsifqmjjbp.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/0B10F448-F577-42FE-B50A-07BDE6AC80C0_zpsifqmjjbp.jpg.html)

Was talking a bit to the glass guy and he noticed there were stress cracks in the gel coat on the corners of the transom. He believes the problem is that the 2 lower motor bolts are 4" higher than where the stringers connect to the transom. This is the bad thing about raising a 20" transom I guess.

He believes putting a couple knees in it will make it more than strong enough. We came up with a plan to run 2 knees from the transom down to tie into the stringers and the last bulkhead. I'll have to put a bit smaller hatch door to access the bilge but I can still have a 14"x24" opening so I think that's plenty. It mainly looked like the opening there was so long before because there was a battery shelf in there. We cut that out as well as the batteries are in the console now.

He dug into the stringers also and other than the last inch or so they are solid as a rock so that's good news.

[bradford]

Good news about the stringers.

[3 Squids]

Man it's been a while since the last update. Not much has happened. Power head is rebuilt and sitting at the shop waiting to get intstalled. Transom is getting wrapped up now. It was a bit more of a project than I had anticipated but none the less it should be done by weekends end.

We repaired the last 6" of stringers as that's the only place that had moisture, which came from the transom. We also built 1-1/2" thick knees from the top of the transom angled down and tied into the stringers and floor. This thing out of pop out the hole like nobody's business. The knees pretty much tie everything into the transom which in the future would make a transom repair much more of a PITA but plans are not to have to do it again. And like my glass man said, as long as he is the one to mount anything to the transom then he guarantees it for life.

I had someone interested in my T-top while it's been sitting there. I love the lack of maintenance needed to a stainless top however I feel for this boat the weight advantage would be nice to have aluminum. Got a quote for a new aluminum frame, cored hardtop with e-box mounded in and installed for $1800. Thinking if I can offset 1/2 the cost by selling mine I may go ahead and pull the trigger. Just for the heck of it I told the guy I wanted $1200 for mine. He's supposed to pass the message on and we will go from there. It's one of those things where mine works and is fine so selling it for less than what I want is pointless. I'll stick with it for a while before I'd give it away.

In other news it's seems I destroyed the foot on my motor when we made our test ride. My buddy felt some play in the lower unit and told me he thought something was wrong. Well I pulled the plug and not a drop of oil came out and the magnet plug is covered in large metal junks. Why the hell I didn't check the oil before taking it is beyond me. Bonehead move on my part.

But today I picked up a parts motor. I got a 1999 150 Merc complete for $300. I mostly was interested because of the newer style cowling that's in good shape other than some sun fade. The foot was off the motor. The guy that had it hauled a boat off of someone's property so he knew nothing about it. The water pump was removed so I was thinking maybe the pump went, hurt the motor and they removed it to investigate. Or so I hoped. But when I went to pick it up his dad was there and said he was told the lower unit was junk and that's why they parked it. Which means I don't have a good foot but I'm hoping maybe the PH is fine and I can wheel and deal with a buddy of mine for a good foot. We shall see. But all the electronics seem in good shape, tilt/trim works and cowlings good so I feel I still did well for $300. I'll post pics of the score in the morning.

[3 Squids]

Here's my $300 parts motor. Haven't had a chance to do a comp test. If that turns out ok I may go ahead and try to get it running. That'd be a sweet deal
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/22C8C683-B123-49F5-8D31-FEEF305A1398_zps4a0sowa0.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/22C8C683-B123-49F5-8D31-FEEF305A1398_zps4a0sowa0.jpg.html)

Went ahead and put the cowling on my motor. Thought I'd have to change the mounts but it lined right up. Probably gonna put a fresh coat of paint on it soon. Though keeping the 150 decals on it would be funny while blowing by some bigger boats. Can't wait to see what the 200's gonna do.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/80645E02-CF17-41C0-AF1E-C70845AF37EC_zpsc2biyjhs.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/80645E02-CF17-41C0-AF1E-C70845AF37EC_zpsc2biyjhs.jpg.html)

[Destroyer]

Went ahead and put the cowling on my motor. Thought I'd have to change the mounts but it lined right up. Probably gonna put a fresh coat of paint on it soon. Though keeping the 150 decals on it would be funny while blowing by some bigger boats. Can't wait to see what the 200's gonna do.

I like that cowl. I've got the same engine, so I may have to try to find one for myself. You're gonna love that 200 on your boat. Sweet engine. Perfect combination. :beer:

[draglink]

Before cowl:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a49/draglink/miscwellcraft030.jpg

After newer style, and no, that's not a 135 under there heh, heh, heh!

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a49/draglink/wellcraftopti005-1.jpg



Glad to hear the progress, sounds like she is coming together

[3 Squids]

Well we planned on having the transom wrapped up this weekend but that didn't happen. Starting to get irritated now. My engine guy has been patiently waiting for the boat but I'm sure his patience is running low. Kinda wish I'd just tackled this on my own.

But anyways while I've been waiting I found some bad news about the parts motor I got. The lower unit is bad. The motor would probably run but has 75-80 psi per cylinder. Good sign nothing is tore up in the motor, just needs freshened up. Still, for $300 I think I did well. The cowlings, working tilt/trim and all the other spare parts I got are well worth $300.

I tried to clean up the hood yesterday but my plans to keep the misleading 150hp decals came to an end. It looked terrible once I cleaned them up. So I just took them off with a heat gun and eraser wheel then buffed the hood and lower cowlings. Of course the top is still faded but it looks much better. I still will probably paint it but this will hold me over for the time being.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/75078F9A-830F-4D5F-A573-25EBDDF04D40_zpstx0o7t9z.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/75078F9A-830F-4D5F-A573-25EBDDF04D40_zpstx0o7t9z.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/5282CB66-9E4B-4F83-9BEF-F5E6EC0FC343_zpslolno28g.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/5282CB66-9E4B-4F83-9BEF-F5E6EC0FC343_zpslolno28g.jpg.html)

[Destroyer]

Looking at that picture with the black cowl like that and for some reason all I kept hearing in my mind was "Luke, I am your father".... :you:

[bradford]

Looking at that picture with the black cowl like that and for some reason all I kept hearing in my mind was "Luke, I am your father".... :you:

My nekkid etecs make me think of stormtroopers.

[3 Squids]

Well been a while but progress is being made. I have had the motor guy on hold now for over a month. I offered to bring him the boat to hang the motor and run it and he kept insisting I get the transom 100% done first. Well I finally just told the fiberglass guy enough is enough, I got to get the boat back. So today we kinda slapped it all back together and hopefully tomorrow I will get the motor hung.

Unfortunately I'll have to take the motor back off and redo a lot of what was done today. The transom itself is fine, just mostly cosmetics in the splash well. I just needed it back together. I was warned the glass guy was good but took a long time but I didn't think it'd be over 2 months. I can see if he had other projects he had to finish first but he started mine soon as I took it there. All well. It'll get done. It was just nice seeing the transom part done. He sprayed it with a thick coat of gel-coat that'll need sanded and buffed of course but that can wait.

Also I have a guy interested in buying my T-top, which still hasn't had the hardtop repairs done. He wants to buy it as is for 3/4 of what I can get a new custom aluminum framed, cored hardtop with built in E-box T-top installed on the boat. Soon as he shows me the cash I may go ahead and pull the trigger on that.

Here's a couple pics I took tonight. You can see the lack of prep in the splash well but the fact she is coming home tomorrow morning is all I care about.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/0AFA493F-0CA5-42B7-9E95-058F3FDDE7BA_zpswsdnbmya.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/0AFA493F-0CA5-42B7-9E95-058F3FDDE7BA_zpswsdnbmya.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/1CE900D7-4A23-4AAF-A1C6-C2635D05E2BA_zps4cnpnfdn.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/1CE900D7-4A23-4AAF-A1C6-C2635D05E2BA_zps4cnpnfdn.jpg.html)

[bradford]

I've learned that fiberglass shops are good places to get free boat storage, often times multiple years worth. Be careful of the hatch in the splash well, potential sinking hazard. A foam roller at least would have been nice of him. I like the transom knees.

[3 Squids]

I've learned that fiberglass shops are good places to get free boat storage, often times multiple years worth. Be careful of the hatch in the splash well, potential sinking hazard. A foam roller at least would have been nice of him. I like the transom knees.

Sinking hazard?!?! Well now you gotta explain that or I'll be freaking out every time I take her out. It had one there from the factory I just updated it to a nicer hatch cover.

[bradford]

Hate to be the guy Squid...

.... but a splash well is designed for when you take green water over the transom it stays out of the boat and bilge and drains quickly away through the scuppers. A hatch than isn't absolutely water tight will allow water into the bilge, which when on board and underway is a manageable situation. The problem is when the scuppers allow water into the splash well due to the aft end sitting low in the water and water seeping (or pouring depending) into the hatch, overwhelming the batteries with the bilge pump constantly running, she gets low enough in the water, and the water just comes across the top of the transom and she eventually sinks at the dock. Other people have had them before, but it's a screaming red flag to me, so I thought I'd mention it.

It would be an easy fix glass wise. I don't mean to freak you out or anything, just something to think about.

Somewhere on here someone posted a go pro video of a guy spear fishing and coming back up to the boat with it listing hard and slowly going down, likely attributed to a low transom and a leaky hatch. Maybe they'll chime in and re post it.

[3 Squids]

Like I said it had a hatch there from the factory which was not waterproof at all. It was just a fiberglass top sitting on top of a hole with a elastic cord underneath keeping it down. Boat made it 38 years like that so i guess I'll just have to go with it. The well has 2 scuppers with the ping pong ball stopper contraption and drains water pretty rapidly.

[3 Squids]

Motor is finally hung back on the boat, just about ready to go get the rebuilt powerhead installed.
http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/FB25430F-29D9-4F98-A096-6AF62B2A970A_zpszortbn2w.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/FB25430F-29D9-4F98-A096-6AF62B2A970A_zpszortbn2w.jpg.html)

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/FF8558CD-4DBF-4752-A4ED-A98DD05A19AF_zpsvhlhuzgr.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/FF8558CD-4DBF-4752-A4ED-A98DD05A19AF_zpsvhlhuzgr.jpg.html)

Also after discovering that the nuts on the 2 eyes in the transom were basically non existent anymore I decided to check the bow eye as well. Well sure enough the nuts were just balls of rust. I can't believe it hasn't pulled out getting it on the trailer. So I bought a new bow eye and my plan is to reglass a core inside the hull as I believe the existing wood core is rotten. For now I just put a piece of wood back there to get it trailered to the motor man. The gel coat around the eye was chipped up pretty badly so I fabricated a little stainless cosmetic plate to cover as much of the mess as I can. I'll also bed it with LifeCaulk once I finish the backing plate.

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/5C37AE7F-2831-4D09-A8AC-1998C61BEEFB_zpsjpgk8maq.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/5C37AE7F-2831-4D09-A8AC-1998C61BEEFB_zpsjpgk8maq.jpg.html)

[3 Squids]

Well got some bad news today. My lower unit was shot, I knew that already. Apparently the lower unit on the parts motor is also shot. Been searching all afternoon for one and have come up empty handed. I asked the motor man if rebuilding them was a good option and he suggest finding a good used one over rebuilding. Not real sure why but for now I guess I'll take his advice.

So if any of you got any laying around a brother could really use some help right now!!

Also he asked me if I was aware the motor wasn't seated to the transom properly. I asked him what he meant and he said he noticed a gap at the bottom of the mounting bracket. He tried to tighten it and couldn't. He said he loosened the top bolts and tightened the bottom and there was a gap at the top. So pretty much my motor is teeter-tottering top to bottom. Not a real happy camper right now. I have been without my boat for the past 2 months to get a transom put it and it's not done right. I feel with YouTube and advice I could of gotten here or any other forum I could of tackled this project myself and saved a lot of time and headache.

It appears to be about a 1/16" or less gap so I'm thinking maybe I can use a long block to true it up??? What are your thought? I have a photo but seem to be having issues with Photobucket so I'll try to get that up ASAP.

[3 Squids]

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/469C2511-1AD9-419E-9F8D-9FAACF81DF4D_zpsxxnv9pw2.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/469C2511-1AD9-419E-9F8D-9FAACF81DF4D_zpsxxnv9pw2.jpg.html)

Think I could possibly true it up with a long block sander??

http://i1186.photobucket.com/albums/z369/declansdaddy58/Boat%20stuff/00F8A2FE-3271-493A-85ED-93E3F2E44178_zpshowfveld.jpg (http://s1186.photobucket.com/user/declansdaddy58/media/Boat%20stuff/00F8A2FE-3271-493A-85ED-93E3F2E44178_zpshowfveld.jpg.html)

Had to post a bow pic. Dat flare dough!!!

[draglink]

https://www.facebook.com/195844987112543/photos/pcb.1278289958868035/1278289752201389/?type=3&theater


don't know if link will work. 20" Lower unit for sale on Mercury site on Facecrack

[bradford]

Have you checked out SEI, seems like good prices vs taking a chance on something from craigslist.

[3 Squids]

Mike, my motor is a 25" shaft. Thanks though

Bradford, I'll take a look at them. I talked to my local Mercury shop and he has one that he replaced a year ago then the owner of the boat repowered. He said he'd sell it to me for $1000 and buying it from him will give me a guarantee on it. Right now that's my best option. Just waiting to get it back from the motor guy.

[3 Squids]

Looked into SEI a little. $845 for a whole new lower unit. Seems like a deal to me. Comes with a 3 year warranty that covers anything. They even claim running with no oil or hitting a stump as covered. May be the route I go depending on shipping. I'm sure that can be expensive.

[bradford]

A lower has some weight to it, but is a relatively small compact package. I'll bet shipping isn't a deal breaker.

Might ask Spareparts, he might have some experience with them.

[Destroyer]

When I bought a lower for my 200hp Mercury 2.5L to convert it from a 20" to a 25" I think the total cost for shipping was less than $50... and that included the lower and the mid extension unit. Shipping shouldn't be that much. :head:

[3 Squids]

When I bought a lower for my 200hp Mercury 2.5L to convert it from a 20" to a 25" I think the total cost for shipping was less than $50... and that included the lower and the mid extension unit. Shipping shouldn't be that much. :head:

Nice. Did you go with SEI? If so how has it performed?

[3 Squids]

So I got the boat back today with a running motor!! Motor sounds great. I was talking to the motor guy and he believed the lower unit will be fine. He said it appears someone used the wrong type of nut on the prop shaft and the threads have minor damage to them. He told me to bolt the prop on if it torqued down properly and didn't strip any thread I'd most likely be fine. He also suggested using a cotter nut and drilling a small hole through the shaft for a cotter pin. But mechanically all seems well the the lower unit.

So for now the motor will probably rest for the winter until I figure out what I'm going to do about the transom. Even the motor guy agreed it was done completely shoddy. Everyone I talked to said the guy was slow but incredible at glass work. I'm not sure what happened but now I'm now sure what I'm going to do with it. I feel no matter what the structural integrity has been compromised due to him cutting the whole back of the boat out and apparently I'm not the only one as everyone that's seen it can't believe it was done that way.

Part of me just wants to rip it all back out and start over with an empty shell but
1- it still bothers me the back had been cut out and it will always be a weak link
2- getting out what he did is probably going to be a nightmare.

Any inspiration would be greatly appreciated. This boat definitely has me down in the dumps about it.

[Destroyer]

Nice. Did you go with SEI? If so how has it performed?

No, I bought the lower from a rebuild shop in Fla that is on eBay a lot. It was a few years ago so I'm sorry but I don't have the company's name .

[Destroyer]

So I got the boat back today with a running motor!! Motor sounds great. I was talking to the motor guy and he believed the lower unit will be fine. He said it appears someone used the wrong type of nut on the prop shaft and the threads have minor damage to them. He told me to bolt the prop on if it torqued down properly and didn't strip any thread I'd most likely be fine. He also suggested using a cotter nut and drilling a small hole through the shaft for a cotter pin. But mechanically all seems well the the lower unit.

Before you go and start drilling holes do like a professional machinist would do. Get yourself a couple of thread files. They come two different ways.. one is just a single "V" shape that you place in the grove of the good threads and work backwards towards the damaged threads (useful for a quick touch-up where one thread goes over the next). The other is a long square bar about 9" in length. Each end has 4 different thread sizes ground into it, one ground into each side, for a total of 8 different thread sizes per bar. Buy the bar that has the threads you need on it, lay the correct side of the bar in the good groves like the previous file and work your way from good threads to the bad threads, filing away the damaged parts of the thread as you go. The advantage of this type of file is that since you always have a few teeth ( VVVVVVV) in the good threads your chances of success with restoring your shaft are greatly increased. Most places that sell industrial and machine shop tools will carry them. Harbor Freight even has some, that, although not the best quality, should do the trick as long as the threads marked on the bar match the ones on your shaft. Be aware that they come in both SAE and Metric, so choose carefully. You'll need to know the diameter and how many threads per inch (TPI) your shaft has.

[3 Squids]

Before you go and start drilling holes do like a professional machinist would do. Get yourself a couple of thread files. They come two different ways.. one is just a single "V" shape that you place in the grove of the good threads and work backwards towards the damaged threads (useful for a quick touch-up where one thread goes over the next). The other is a long square bar about 9" in length. Each end has 4 different thread sizes ground into it, one ground into each side, for a total of 8 different thread sizes per bar. Buy the bar that has the threads you need on it, lay the correct side of the bar in the good groves like the previous file and work your way from good threads to the bad threads, filing away the damaged parts of the thread as you go. The advantage of this type of file is that since you always have a few teeth ( VVVVVVV) in the good threads your chances of success with restoring your shaft are greatly increased. Most places that sell industrial and machine shop tools will carry them. Harbor Freight even has some, that, although not the best quality, should do the trick as long as the threads marked on the bar match the ones on your shaft. Be aware that they come in both SAE and Metric, so choose carefully. You'll need to know the diameter and how many threads per inch (TPI) your shaft has.

Definitely going to look into that first. Thanks a bunch. I never knew such a tool existed.

[SkunkBoat]

sorry to see the problem with the transom. I was worried when I first saw your pic of the outside skin cut off. Not the best way to do it. People think its faster and easier than cutting the cap and going from the inside but then its all on you to shape it.

Question. Could it be that the holes are drilled in the wrong place or angled incorrectly? If you remove the bottom bolts and snug the top, can it sit flush?

Second.
Rather than shave it, consider adding to it to make a flat surface. Way easier. Use some EPOXY hard filler.

[Destroyer]

Definitely going to look into that first. Thanks a bunch. I never knew such a tool existed.

One picture is worth a thousand words, etc. I'm not endorsing this particular brand or dealer, but this is what a thread file looks like, as shown in the picture. They (the files) come in several different types, to cover all the different thread sizes that are on the market.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/8-IN-1-THREAD-FILE-11-24-TPI-MADE-IN-THE-USA-/162235656516?hash=item25c5ffa944:g:m3sAAOSwPCVX~Sr 3&item=162235656516&vxp=mtr

[3 Squids]

sorry to see the problem with the transom. I was worried when I first saw your pic of the outside skin cut off. Not the best way to do it. People think its faster and easier than cutting the cap and going from the inside but then its all on you to shape it.

Question. Could it be that the holes are drilled in the wrong place or angled incorrectly? If you remove the bottom bolts and snug the top, can it sit flush?

Second.
Rather than shave it, consider adding to it to make a flat surface. Way easier. Use some EPOXY hard filler.

No. it's definitely bowed. I put a straight edge along the transom and it teeter-totters like a playground toy. After thinking about it I agree adding material would be better than shaving it down. Guess I'll pull the motor off yet again and see what I can do with it. That's really the least of my worries right now as I gotta reconstruct the splashwell as well. He's got all sorts of 2x4's everywhere I guess bracing things up. Seemed a bit excessive to me. And as you said it had to be shaped back and it was not shaped back at all the way it was. Everything is kind of radiused now and looks terrible. I'm not sure at all how I'm going to get a somewhat sharp edge there without it being weak and breaking off easily.

One picture is worth a thousand words, etc. I'm not endorsing this particular brand or dealer, but this is what a thread file looks like, as shown in the picture. They (the files) come in several different types, to cover all the different thread sizes that are on the market.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/8-IN-1-THREAD-FILE-11-24-TPI-MADE-IN-THE-USA-/162235656516?hash=item25c5ffa944:g:m3sAAOSwPCVX~Sr 3&item=162235656516&vxp=mtr

I have seen those before. My dad alsways had a few in his toolbox but I never knew what they were. I'm going to get info on the threads and order one. Worth a shot.

[Destroyer]

I have seen those before. My dad always had a few in his toolbox but I never knew what they were. I'm going to get info on the threads and order one. Worth a shot.

I was a machinist for a number of years before I became a plant engineer. They work, and they work well. Saved many an item by using them. Just take your time, let the file do the work. Just lay the teeth into the groves and then work the file straight forward and back. Be careful to not work the file in an arc or a circle on the threads. Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy .

[3 Squids]

Been a while but it looks like warmer weather will be here soon and it's time I start getting this mess of a transom fixed up. I went out today and pulled the fresh motor back off the boat. I got a couple gallons of resin on the way as well as 10yds of chop strand to start. Plenty of sandpaper is stocked up. Pretty much going to have to grind everything back down and start over.

Also, sadly to some, we will be painting the boat while we're at it. We discussed a light pewter or a light blue. Narrowed it down to one of each and let our children pick. Of course my 4 year old boy said blue. For the other 2 which don't talk we put one color on my phone and one on my wife's phone and seen which one they "picked". Sure enough they both went blue, multiple times, even when we switched the phones around. Good enough for me.

So time to get busy.

[3 Squids]

Update:

Talked to a fiberglass shop today, told them what I had and wanted a price to get it fixed properly. He basically told me to guarantee the whole transom is done correctly he would have to completely start from scratch. He said since the outer skin was removed, which when I said that he snickered and rolled his eyes, he would have to remove it. But he also will have to cut the back part of the tub out just as if someone was replacing the transom the correct way.

He couldn't believe that he just bowed 1/2" ply instead of doing 3 pieces like the factory. He showed me how they spline the pieces together and make it stronger than 1 solid piece.

He couldn't quote me a price because he has no clue what he's getting into. And demoing it is going to be much harder now that there's no rot. But he did tell me guaranteed me a minimum of $2200. I about **** a brick but I understand where he's coming from.

With my plan of building my own center console I just can't justify spending $2200+ on a boat I don't intend to keep. For the hell of it I've posted it for same and have had not a single offer. At this point I feel I can part the boat out and get more. I already have the T-top spoken for for $1300. I can use the fuel tank which is only 2 years old in my new boat and save $600 or so. Trailer should bring in $600 or so, so I believe just in that I'll come out ahead.

It's unfortunate that this has come to this as before the boat was butchered up it was a nice rig. There's a lot of things I didn't like about how the boat was made which is why I want to build my own. If it weren't for that I'd maybe try fixing it myself but I'd rather just put my time and money in the new build.

Also if you've been following me on here you've seen my new toy that's coming back to Va. in a little over a week. It a 1986 (? I believe?) cuddy boat. It's not local to me but I have a boating friend (actually the owner of Aquasport Owners Club forum) local to it and he went and scoped it out and gave me a good report. Said the boat is extremely clean and solid. Made a deal with the owner and now I'm just waiting for a day off to go get it which looks like it may be next Saturday. This boat should get me through the next couple summers while I build the center console. Should be fun.

[Chanhyx]

New to the forum and just starting a V20 cc redo, looking to add a second station and just generally clean it up, will repower before it goes in the water and have access to a ox66 200.....i'm in great bridge so not to far away, will be looking for parts so if you have anything of interest send me a message or respond here....here's a a pic of what i'm starting with ....

http://i275.photobucket.com/albums/jj300/Chanhyx420/Unlocked%20album%20for%20Sharing/20170220_131026_zpshcf9s8lp.jpg

[3 Squids]

New to the forum and just starting a V20 cc redo, looking to add a second station and just generally clean it up, will repower before it goes in the water and have access to a ox66 200.....i'm in great bridge so not to far away, will be looking for parts so if you have anything of interest send me a message or respond here

Nice. What year is your V? She will be a beast with an Ox66 200.

[Kracker Jack]

New to the forum and just starting a V20 cc redo, looking to add a second station and just generally clean it up, will repower before it goes in the water and have access to a ox66 200.....i'm in great bridge so not to far away, will be looking for parts so if you have anything of interest send me a message or respond here....here's a a pic of what i'm starting with ....

http://i275.photobucket.com/albums/jj300/Chanhyx420/Unlocked%20album%20for%20Sharing/20170220_131026_zpshcf9s8lp.jpg

Your 15 minutes from me.

[3 Squids]

Well kinda sad news, the Green Machine was sold. Lost my a$$ on it but that's the name of the game. New owner actaully wanted it just for the console, top, and fuel tank for his 21' Chris Craft Scorpion but said he may actually try and get the transom fixed. Apparently he has a guy who works for him that does glass work also and said he'd love to tear into it.

It was bittersweet, but in the end it never would of gotten fixed sitting here. So hopefully this summer this thread will start over fresh with the other '79 that I have which is a cuddy being converted. Once I get the new boat (23' Coastal) in the water I plan on tearing the rest of the hull apart and starting from scratch. Should be an itchy good time.

[Destroyer]

Shame the Green machine met that fate. Even bigger shame that the guy that destroyed the transom caused it. Hate to see one of these boats get destroyed because of shear incompetence. Best of luck with the 23'!! :beer: