1976 Starcraft Resto - Need console suggestions

[jasonejasone]

Hey everybody! I have moved on from my previous Montgomery Ward Sea King project, and sold it for a hefty profit!

I picked up a 1976 Starcraft (unknown model) for about $1,500 - all from the profit from my previous project!

It seems the previous owner either installed their own shoddy console to convert from a tiller steer, or just replaced whatever console was there before. They built it from crappy, thin plywood and it just sucked.

I also had to do a full floor replacement... I ended up using 3/4" plywood, sanded and coated with textured / waterproof deck paint. Would love to hear any cheap flooring suggestions other than carpet... perhaps some inexpensive rubber or similar?

Anyways, my main reason for posting is that I have built a new console out of that 3/4 plywood... stained it and absolutely soaked it in epoxy. It looks fine and everything, but long-term I just don't think it'll last.

I have looked into fiberglass and plastic consoles for jon boats, but most are $3-400 and up.

I was hoping to find something in a salvage yard, or for a lower price, that I could use instead of the one I built (see photos).

Anyone have a suggestion for where I might source a console, or any other suggestions for how to handle this?

Thanks!!!

 

[buxmj]

Check and see if there is a marine salvage near you, I got a nice outboard motor stand at a salvage. Even salvage places online and see if it would be worth a day trip to go pick it up.