Hello Everyone,
I just picked up this boat yesterday. Although I've built and remodeled a few houses, I've never rebuilt a boat before, and I'm not really a mechanic. It's going to be an adventure.
I'm 80% sure I want to convert to outboard power. I'm sure a lot of you are saying "nay" already, but that's part of the reason I bought a project boat. I want to build 96" x 72" "L" shaped bench seating for 7, reclaiming the engine area in the process. Among other things, it might require beefing up the transom, and it will require some sort of conversion bracket. Aluminum brackets are available for $900, but I might be able to build out of wood and fiberglass. I'm thinking of an older Optimax 200, but still not settled on a motor. I've seen some Opti's for around $3000, but I'm hoping to find something closer to $2000. Not sure if that's realistic.
The floor is very springy in the center, so that will get pulled for sure, and then I'll see what the stringers look like. I do see some signs of rot on a stinger near the old engine area.
I've got a pile of parts for connecting a Chevy 350. Motor mounts, and a bunch of doo-hickeys. No outdrive. I imagine they might be worth some $, but i'd rather trade for insight, knowledge, and maybe a little labor. I can send pics to anyone who's interested.
Much more could be said, but I'll stop for now. I'm hoping it's a 1 winter project, but it could easily be 2.
Thanks,
Grant