1957 Cadillac Lido - Information Appreciated

[cjohn812]

I have what I think is a 1957 Cadillac Lido and I am stuck between restoring and selling....not sure what I want to do with it. I am in the process of researching the boat so any information given would be greatly appreciated. I am wondering how rare they really are and if they are worth the restoration. Thank you.

 

[matt167]

Re: 1957 Cadillac Lido - Information Appreciated

Boats are never really 'worth' restoring. Most restoration costs easily meet or exceed the value of the watercraft. It comes down to if you like the boat or not, and is it worth it to you... However, that is aluminum so it will cost much less/ quicker than a fiberglass restoration, and you can probably be on the water pretty cheap with a boat nobody else has. If you are looking for a restoration project as a beginner, restore it.

As for 'worth' in a restored state, a good complete original example might hit $8k, but 1/2 of that is a more realistic figure, and $2,500 I would think would be a 'good' price on a decent restored example would be.

 

[Willyclay]

Re: 1957 Cadillac Lido - Information Appreciated

Welcome to the iboats.com forum. The members here are great and the experts, which I am not, can help you with any questions about your boat. Restoration to the OEM configuration is usually more expensive than can possibly be recovered by selling it, even in restored condition. You will have to decide if you want to do any repairs and make it seaworthy for personal use. The link below will get you to the Fiberglassics website that also has a wealth of info about "tinneys" including Cadillacs. Good luck!

Cadillac - Classic Boat Library

 

[cjohn812]

Re: 1957 Cadillac Lido - Information Appreciated

Thanks for the info. The part I am not sure on is using the proper motor. I have the shop to do the painting, upholstery, metal fab..etc. I am not sure what size motor it was equiped with and what to use. I would like to have something that would give it some pep, but not break the bank getting a 56 year old boat in the water. If I do restore it, it is for pesonal use and not intended to profit from.

 

[Willyclay]

Re: 1957 Cadillac Lido - Information Appreciated

I am not sure what size motor it was equiped with and what to use. I would like to have something that would give it some pep, but not break the bank getting a 56 year old boat in the water.

If you are positive about the ID of your boat, it appears to be spec'd for 50HP MAX. Plenty of classic old motors from that era that would provide lots of fun and be obtainable at very reasonable prices, hundreds instead of thousands for newer models. A later model (70's & 80's) OMC twin in 40 or 50 horsepower versions would be more fuel efficient but cost more intially. IMHO the transom should be renewd with a laminated plywood core of at least 1.5 inches. Plenty of threads available to help you develop a plan. Good luck!

 

[greenbush future]

Re: 1957 Cadillac Lido - Information Appreciated

My first classic was a glass boat in that same age group, it's been a fun experience bringing it back to life. If you enjoy this kind of work, you cant ask for a better candidate for a make over. And you could add a cool old outboard or a modern unit, it's all up to you!!

 

[Triangleboater]

Re: 1957 Cadillac Lido - Information Appreciated

I recommend you spend some time in the boat restoration area of this forum, you will get lots of inspriation! It's how i decided on going forward with mine!

 

[rivermouse]

Re: 1957 Cadillac Lido - Information Appreciated

Here is my 53 year old tinny. It has cost very little over the years to keep me boating.Original engine still runs too. If you want old you want metal......

 

[ilovevintage81]

Re: 1957 Cadillac Lido - Information Appreciated

I cant believe i seen you on here im from louisville and was texting you last night about boat dont sell it to a scraper please that boat needs restored and some love yourdad would be happy to see it finished i would love to have it maybe we can make a deal