Thought I'd start a thread about my first boat project.
First, thanks to all who have shared their knowledge and information on this site. I'd be nowhere near as far along without you all.
A little background on the boat, it's a '71 Slickcraft SS195, 17' I/O Mercruiser inline 6 cylinder 250-cu.in. w/165-hp. Bought it from a fellow who had it advertised in the local trading post. First time I saw it I knew it was what I wanted. Something priced within my budget for a first boat, to see if boating was for me, and a neat looking style in my opinion. Previous owner had receipts for all work he had done over a four year period. Most significant was for replacing the lower unit when he damaged it hitting something with his new SS prop. That one receipt was more than twice what he wanted for the boat, trailer, safety equipment, ski vests and ropes, dock lines, brand new anchor, tube, etc. The obvious problems were heavy oxidation on the red gelcoat, and the sole had been cut to replace the fuel tank, but never closed the wood nor replaced the carpet and seats. All the seats were there, just not mounted. Water had gotten under the wood and rotted the inner port side stringer as well as the center stringer. Floatation foam was holding water. Otherwise it appeared to be all original and in good shape for it's age.
I'll make another post about the work I've done and add some pictures.
If anyone needs specific information on this model Slickcraft, please don't hesitate to ask. I'll be glad to share whatever I can.
First, thanks to all who have shared their knowledge and information on this site. I'd be nowhere near as far along without you all.
A little background on the boat, it's a '71 Slickcraft SS195, 17' I/O Mercruiser inline 6 cylinder 250-cu.in. w/165-hp. Bought it from a fellow who had it advertised in the local trading post. First time I saw it I knew it was what I wanted. Something priced within my budget for a first boat, to see if boating was for me, and a neat looking style in my opinion. Previous owner had receipts for all work he had done over a four year period. Most significant was for replacing the lower unit when he damaged it hitting something with his new SS prop. That one receipt was more than twice what he wanted for the boat, trailer, safety equipment, ski vests and ropes, dock lines, brand new anchor, tube, etc. The obvious problems were heavy oxidation on the red gelcoat, and the sole had been cut to replace the fuel tank, but never closed the wood nor replaced the carpet and seats. All the seats were there, just not mounted. Water had gotten under the wood and rotted the inner port side stringer as well as the center stringer. Floatation foam was holding water. Otherwise it appeared to be all original and in good shape for it's age.
I'll make another post about the work I've done and add some pictures.
If anyone needs specific information on this model Slickcraft, please don't hesitate to ask. I'll be glad to share whatever I can.