strokendiesel002
Petty Officer 1st Class
- Joined
- May 15, 2012
- Messages
- 283
View attachment 173716
I'm sorry, I haven't had a chance to go snap some pics, however, here is a rough sketch of how the hatch and tripod look.
View attachment 173833
I can tell you first hand that when these boats are taken care of they will last 30 years or more. My Dad bought this boat brand new in August of '76 with a Merc 650. The next summer he traded the 650 in for an 850. Cost $1000. He was fortunate enough to keep it in a garage and out of the weather when not in use all these years. Had to replace the floor last winter and only minor hiccups with the motor about three years ago due to rotting wires. Runs better than new now and we wouldn't trade it for a brand new one. I have 3 videos on YouTube. Search "1977 Merc 850" it does about 40mph with one person in it.
Good luck with your rebuild. I know you'll enjoy it.
These are great pics, and will be very useful in the near future. Its clear that the boat was/is in great shape. You should start a thread and share these photos and information with others, Thanks for the look
Staining and the using poly on the deck material will extend it's life longer than you might imagine. With proper care and maintenance it will last for Decades. Good Job!!!! Uhmmm... I can't believe you let a little snow slow you down. I thought all Colorado guys could deal with it.!!!!
I use these just to lift and hold the center of the cover up. I had a lot of pooling before I started using them. I also tie some heavy string fore/aft and side to side to keep the pole vertical otherwise they like to fall over..
I used 4 - 10' sticks of 3/4" PVC & 4 - 90's and 16 T's to make one like this that extends from the windshield to the transom . Works GREAT!