Question on Boat Purchase (Now With Pics on Pg 2)

joeithaca00 · #1 09-13-2005, 09:32 PM

Long time reader, first time poster...

I have the opportunity to purchase a 1970's (not sure of year) wellcraft V20 center console. It's not in the best shape (having sunk, due to a bad transom).

So knowing that the boat was sunk and all the wiring, engine, and transom need to be replaced, I'm in a troubled spot. The work doesn't seem to be that bad, but working on a transom gives me a little worry as the margin of error costs 10K. The picture galleries are what's giving me the motivation to do this, I would plan on at least 18 months to do the renovations/repair/repower, but I want to make sure the price is good.

I can get the boat/trailer (and a non-pickled 125 Evinrude) for 1K, a senseless drop in the bucket compared to what I'm planning on putting into it, but does that seem like an ok price (Keep in mind I'm very reluctant to purchase/ride in a boat with a used motor, two horrible experiences).

Also, all of you who have done restorations and posted the results on line, top notch work...I would never have considered anything like this a year ago, but this site is mildly addictive + I love the look of the boat.

macojoe · #2 09-13-2005, 09:41 PM

welcome to the site!!

As for the boat, I have a 1975 and love it!!

But $1000 for something that has been sunk and that old to begin with?? I don't think I would do it!!

With the money you are going to spend you can buy a nice hull to start with!!

Were are you located?? We have a member here in FL with a great machine for sale and ready to go!

Franco · #3 09-13-2005, 10:36 PM

Hey Joe, I agree with MJ. You can get a nice boat for a lot less than you can rebuils one in that condition. I might be the guy MJ was refering to. I've done almost all the hard work - see previous posts. I would sell her to a good home, I'm looking at another V20 to buy.

Veeder · #4 09-13-2005, 11:08 PM

Sunk boat with a bad transom? Run far, and run fast.

reelapeelin · #5 09-13-2005, 11:09 PM

It depends on what you WANT...do you want a project of which you can take pride in the workmanship and enjoy after the work's done?...or do you want a boat you can use/enjoy while in progress...either way, you'll love the V20...the project will be a long haul...a boat you can enjoy along the way is a lot more fun... ;D...

joeithaca00 · #6 09-13-2005, 11:57 PM

Thanks for the quick feedback.

This would be something that I would use more to enjoy the workmanship. I was thinking of doing this instead of buying a new boat, I would work towards replacing absolutely everything (something I would enjoy).

There are a few fears that I have with this, first and most obvious is the fact it sank and secondly I don't have a clue as to the time commitment this would take to properly restore, I'm guestimating somewhere around 200 - 250 hours (probably high).

Franco · #7 09-14-2005, 12:08 AM

I think your time estimate is low unless you can give 5 weeks time uninterrupted. I cant tell you how many hours I have spent working on my boat, let alone the planning and research. But I agree, it is a very satisfying experience. I had an idea about what a boat should be and set out to make mine that boat. You'll start out with a great boat, and make it into what you want. Go for it !!! This is a great place to get advice. These guys have a lot of experience doing everything on a boat - good and bad. Welcome aboard and dont get your nortons in a bunch!!!

Mac_Attack · #8 09-14-2005, 12:08 AM

I like to do projects too. Small ones that is. If your willing and able to to a total rebuild go for it! Me I'd buy Franco's and be fishing tomarrow. Cut the price in half $500 Bill Mc ;D

phester · #9 09-14-2005, 12:26 AM

I think Fillet1 [we have'nt heard much from him lately] is selling his boat.He did a fine job on "upgrades", I dont think it was a full restoration...but it sure looks like it was.Joe, try to get to the v20 gallery,Fillet1s boat is I believe on the last page,Good luck and welcome to the board.

macojoe · #10 09-14-2005, 04:07 AM

Well if a project is what you want a project is what you are going to get!!

First IMO a boat is a never ending project!! So 250 hours is not going to be close to what you will put into this boat.

We no your looking at the transom for repairs, but it has been sunk and for how long??
If the stringers are full of water then your going to have to tear the floor out!

I could be wrong but I think your looking a a full redo!! Tear up the floors and all! You will have to strip this to a bath tub and start from strach.

Just remember that you have a long long long road ahead of you!! and boat stuff is not cheap!!

$1000 dollar for a sunk boat for a complete redo is a bit much IMO, Look around and see what you can find cheap, or try to get this one cheaper??

Good luck and ask all you want!! And we need pictures!! No pic no advice ;D