1973 Chrysler Tri-Hull ??? - model identification

[Redline8407]

Hi everyone,
I'm really excited to get into the boating world, I just got my first boat last month. Its a project so Im doing as much research as possible. It's a 1973 Chrysler 17.5' ??? Its some sort of Tri-Hull but Im not sure if there is more to the model than that. I tried to look up the HIN # but Im not getting anywhere. The last time it was in the water was 91' according to the CT. registration. The make: Chrysler, Model: just says outboard. The guy I got it from started to rip the floors & stringers out (and didn't save the old stringer) but then realized what he was in for. He was new to boating, married w/kids and worked 6 days a week. At least thats what he told me. It came with the 2 outboards; original chrysler 3 Cyl, 2 stroke outboard (seized) and, unknown to me at the time, a 84' or 85' Mercury 90 inline 6. The merc seems to be in good shape considering the year. Anyway, I've been searching through countless images trying to get an idea. Its a try-hull but a much deeper V in the center, not like any others I've seen. It also has an open bow. I would greatly appreciate any help.
Thanks guys ! (My Profile pic is the boat)

 

[matt167]

Re: 1973 Chrysler Tri-Hull ??? - model identification

Fiberglassics should have info. Most Chryslers were Cathedral hull which is pretty much their name for Tri Hull but they are a bit deeper and more pronounced hulls

 

[Redline8407]

Re: 1973 Chrysler Tri-Hull ??? - model identification

Thank you for the info. I have to completely restore it so any info helps. Im trying to find a layout or diagram for the stringers and bulkhead(s). I can see that there was one bulkhead by the bilge but thats it. Any restoration pictures of different boats have at least 2. Also, The fuel tank placement, I'd like to put it under the deck but I'm not too sure where; towards the bow, Center, or closer to the outboard. I read in threads that the fuel tank placement is a big deal because it could drastically effect the boats center of gravity.

 

[zool]

Re: 1973 Chrysler Tri-Hull ??? - model identification

Since built in tanks arent static in weight, the placement in smaller boats is engineered in conjunction with the maximum weight/passenger capacity. They are generally placed at the center of gravity so as to not effect the profile at rest or underway. Even a moderate size tank set at the rear, the bow, or sides can render the boat unsafe in poor conditions. An aft mounted tank, with the motor, batteries, and passengers all at the rear can cause it to turtle under, a bow mounted tank in a bow rider can cause broaching, side mounted can cause capsizing in a beam sea.

A reasonable size tank, set in a secure coffin (sandwiched between stringers and bulkheads), allows for relative safe operation in most conditions. Proper venting and elevation from bilge water is important too.

 

[Redline8407]

Re: 1973 Chrysler Tri-Hull ??? - model identification

Zool, Thanks for the fuel tank info. Im going to try and find out where the original tank was placed (& size), and rebuild accordingly ! :joyous: