Slow Project
 

Well I recently bought this boat, and plan on doing a full restoration on it.
Full inboard MercCruiser 165. My first boat project so to me it looks like a lot of work. But most of the stringers look alright so thats a plus. here check out this pics :) :sly:

http://s1298.photobucket.com/user/fr...?sort=3&page=1

I plan on getting to work on the flooring here soon.

Looks to me like you may need to do some stringer work before you slap the floor down... looks like a plain 2x4 sistered to the stringer....

Also I think you may need to look into a spacer for your exhaust riser... might be a little low as is and be at risk for hydrolocking the engine


Where are you located?

Woah, that's an interesting project!!

Most people go from I/O to bracket outboard......this was total opposite with straight inboard. One of my favorite boats I've owned was a straight inboard Mako!

Def check stringers while its opened up. Also check those motor mounts!

I'm watching this one also!

I am in Hernando county florida. gulf side of things.

I think you may be right about the riser because I tried turning her over and she wouldnt budge. hooked up the started and it went.

I think I am going to keep that 2x4 there and fiberglass it in. I think it was added to strengthen that stringer. ?

Also what do you guys think of the engine so far front?
Will it cause problems if I built a pilot house.

In the pictures I can't tell where the engine is? Also, where is the fuel tank(s) and where would the batteries be located? You may get by with offsetting the forward weight by having fuel and batteries toward the stern?

If the stringer NEEDS reenforced then tear it all out and build it right from the start.

Building upon bad repairs of rotten bones WILL be something you regret sooner than you'd think...
My advice: and this is for your own good... do it right or sell it and get one that doesn't need repair.... It hurts now but you'll thank me later.

I completely agree with smoke, i had a 24 sea ox just like MJs old ox. I half assed the stringer repair and floor repair and regret every moment of it. Its worth doing it right the first time. you can bore test those stringers with a 1/8 or 3/16 drill bit, If wood shavings comes out your ok if dirt comes out there shot and will need replacing. good luck on your project and we are all here to help.