Re: 1974 Starcraft Chieftain 18' OB refit
Thanks guys. I really appreciate your contribution to this thread and all the things you've taught me along the way.
This week I switched out the NGK plugs for Champions, installed rod holders and got the motor checked out by a mechanic on the water. The engine runs great! The cam follower bushing was shot so the timing was never right. After fixing that and some fine adjustments we are good to go. Idles at 550rpm in gear and hits 40 mph on gps @5000rpm with just me and 6 gallons of gas on board with a 17 pitch prop. One tip the mechanic gave me on trolling with this type of engine was to trim it up all the way almost until the tilt cylinder kicks in. This makes it run leaner and according to him it will troll all day. I'll be putting that to the test tomorrow when I take the admiral out for the first time.
Next up is a passenger console. I'm thinking of incorporating a removable table top. I'll post up when there is something to show.
Here is some more eye candy, finally a pic of the data plate. I had a local engraver put the serial# on it but it came out like crap so I put a label over it. Thanks again Clay! And the whole thread? Really? That's alot of reading bro.
I particularly liked the rear splashwell mod, 'Ive got a 18 center console Sylvan, built on the early 80's Starcraft SS hull with the humungous splashwell at the back, same V4 but a Johnson, to gain even 6 inches would be big running riggers and stuff here on Lake Ontario. After 30 years it's getting tired and time for a restore/mod. Thanks for the detailed views.
