1979 Blue Fin Renovation Challenge

[billygee]

Newbee Here ,

Making an attempt on renovating my 16ft Blue Fin. (unfamiliar with some sections of the boat names, so bare with me)
1st off the Tag ID shows BFFSH29 - etc. in which I?m trying to identify what I actually have.
It?s been on blocks for 5yrs from when fishing the transom rotted out and the boat filled with water (bilge pump going making back to the dock before it sank).(As I will include a PIC on my next post)
The Boat was renovated to begin with into a fishing boat, but not at its best. So, I then gutted everything, but had to put the project to rest due to family issues.
I had a Solid Transom made and sealed it with marine Spar varnish. But have not yet installed it.
The Craft came with a 60hp mariner OB Still in good condition which I intend to use.
the transom being rotten, had threaded rods installed from the transom through the splash well into the side rails so as it would hold together. (Quick Fix Job)
I would like to know if the splash well is really needed along with the side rails, since I would like to make a rear stand platform and removing the side and top panels would give me more than a foot more width.

Any Help is Appreciated
billygee

 

[roscoe]

Re: 1979 Blue Fin Renovation Challenge

Welcome to iboats billy.


Do you have any idea what your boat looked like originally?

Was it similar to this?

Or this:

If so, your Blue Fin shares the same hull as the Starcraft, Sylvan, SmokerCraft models, made in the same factory.


Yes the splashwell adds to the strength of the hull.
Some say it is essential.
I know of at least one member that has removed it, but sold the boat soon after making the modifications,
so we don't know how it held up.

I would say the tops of the gunnels should not be removed, as they are what keeps the hull shape and add lots of strength and rigidity.

Here is a link to the Starcraft forum, where you can view the restoration and modification threads of other members. Lots of fabulous info there.


Certainly some photos of your boat would help us.

Remember, ask any questions that come to mind.

Happy Boating.

 

[rickryder]

Re: 1979 Blue Fin Renovation Challenge

Hi Billy! Welcome Aboard....

I would bet this thread will be moved to the restoration area....Lovingly known as The Dry Dock

We will be more than happy to help you along with your rebuild.... Take some time and read a bunch of threads about restos and you will become familiar what you have to do.

Please post pics of what you have and the trouble areas so we can guide you in the proper and safe repairs.

 

[QC]

Re: 1979 Blue Fin Renovation Challenge

I would bet this thread will be moved to the restoration area....Lovingly known as The Dry Dock ;

Yup Welcome aboard Billy!!

 

[rickryder]

Re: 1979 Blue Fin Renovation Challenge

Yup Welcome aboard Billy!!

Thanks for the move QC!

 

[billygee]

Re: 1979 Blue Fin Renovation Challenge

Welcome to iboats billy.


Do you have any idea what your boat looked like originally?

Was it similar to this?

Or this:

If so, your Blue Fin shares the same hull as the Starcraft, Sylvan, SmokerCraft models, made in the same factory.


Yes the splashwell adds to the strength of the hull.
Some say it is essential.
I know of at least one member that has removed it, but sold the boat soon after making the modifications,
so we don't know how it held up.

I would say the tops of the gunnels should not be removed, as they are what keeps the hull shape and add lots of strength and rigidity.

Here is a link to the Starcraft forum, where you can view the restoration and modification threads of other members. Lots of fabulous info there.


Certainly some photos of your boat would help us.

Remember, ask any questions that come to mind.

Happy Boating.

Thanks to everyone for the quick response

As far as the PICs go, the second, or lower one seems the closest to what I have.
and for the originality, I have no Idea as it had been modified for Musky Fishing in
Northern WI. If this helps the Tag ID shows BFFSH29**** etc.
I hope to get some PICs taken when the rain stops

Thanks Again Everyone
Bill

 

[Trooper82]

Re: 1979 Blue Fin Renovation Challenge

Welcome to the dry dock!

 

[billygee]

Re: 1979 Blue Fin Renovation Challenge

Welcome to the dry dock!

Thank You

Rain Stopped was able to snap some PICs

Bill

 

[jigngrub]

Re: 1979 Blue Fin Renovation Challenge

That boat will make a nice build.

You can shorten splashwells by 3 or 4 inches to give yourself some more room, you just have to look at it and see what you can live with and still have the structural rigidity the spashwell give the transom.

Instead of removing your gunwales, you can build you deck flush with the top of them... but anything on top of that deck is liable to go for a swim with nothing to stop it from rolling/sliding off.