1971 Norris Craft John Boat to Bass Boat-My First Restoration

[swier]

I have been working on restoring/transforming a 1971 Norris Craft john boat, over to a bass boat.

This is the first restoration I have ever done, and I taught myself how to glass, wire, gelcoat, and much more.

If anyone is considering a project similar to this, DO IT!

Please reach out with any questions or comments as I would love to help out others, and hear what improvements you all would recommend!

Initial boat purchase: $450
Total investment thus far: ~$4400

Here is the list of work I have done so far in order of time, difficulty and expense(There is still some work to do i.e. door handles, flooring trim, final gelcoat on exterior, and eventually a new motor.)

Demolition List
Removed old transom and replaced with new marine plywood (glassed back in)
Sanded down and reglassed/gelcoated keel
Sanded down any cracks or holes in mold and glassed
Cut out live well and moved it back to where it was even with drivers seat (glassed back in)
Removed old float pod flotation, and replaced (glassed back in)
Removed all rotten wood under original front deck and replaced (glassed back in)
Removed/sanded down all old carpet and adhesive
Removed trolling motor mount and replaced (glassed back in)
Cut out door holes on original front deck for new deck

Additions to original design
Two layer plywood front and back decks (glassed in)
-First layer for ribbing and compartment separation
-Second layer for doors and hinges
Bay box next to trolling motor mount (glassed in)
Olive Green and Ivory gelcoat
Recessed foot control tray for trolling motor
Aluminum engine mounting plate

Electronics and Wiring
8 gang switchboard
12 inch LED headlights (2)
4 inch LED taillights (2)
Green LED interior lights on dimmer switch (installed with aluminum angle with clear plastic shield)
Bilge pump
Livewell pump
Radio and sub
Running lights (front and rear)
3 batteries (1 start, 1 trolling, 1 accessories)

Flooring and Paint
Army Desert Camo Seadeck (5mm nipple)
Marine Grade Carpet (cockpit)
Olive green gelcoat from Fibreglast.com
Ivory gelcoat from Fibreglast.com

Engine Work (1978 Johnson 35 Seahorse)
Complete rewire
Replaced water pump
Replaced starter switch
Replaced starter
Replaced starter solenoid
Adjusted throttle and lubed throttle and gear cables

Extras
Minnkota 45lb thrust foot controlled trolling motor
High backed bass boat seats (2)

 

[eggs712]

Looking good! Nice work.

 

[mickyryan]

nice job!