Update...not so bright...

[Mulv80]

Jeff, This is what I think; You need a little skiff or something simple to get out on the water while you restore the V. Don't let the professional shop discourage you, If you walked in there with a classic Mako or Seacraft they probably would have been all over it. I think with most people who attempt projects on the scale of what your doing experience some setbcks and get discouraged. I did and I took mine to the dump ;D but just think of the day when that V splashes and it was all because of your blood sweat and tears went into her. MJ's right the hard parts done. Its all open and ready for repair, it doesnt have to be cosmetic who the hell will ever see it.