I just got a 74 23' executive. I am having problems finding any parts to restore (seats, dash, engine cover, etc). I have been looking everywhere. Can anyone help?
Welcome aboard. The Sleek Executive is one of my favorite boats and there are a few other Sleek enthusiasts here as well. Generally speaking you can't find seats and such like you are looking for. They have to be fabricated or restored as many of our members do on a variety of boats here. Any pics of what you are looking for and your boat? Here's a pic of the sweetest Exec. that I have seen:
I will have pics soon. I have the boat at a boat mechanic now he is replacing the head gaskets and looking over the boat to let me know what else needs to be done ( other than interior ). Is it cheaper to upholster or replace seats
In my opinion (and of course your mileage may vary) if there are pre-made seats that will fit your spaces, they are more cost effective than reupholstering and are now often made with plastic or composite materials.
Check my Ambassador build thread for seat and gauge ideas. I bought my seats from Veada. I have yet to install them but I am very pleased with them for the $$$. Link is in the sig and welcome to the classic sleek daycruiser club.
That's a great thread for me to get some ideas. Thank you. As soon as I get the boat back I will post some before, during, and completed pics. Should have it soon it has been at the mechanic's for about 2 weeks
Well I talked with the mechanic today and he said he just recieved the head gasket parts. He also said there was some kind of big crack that has to be welded. Apparantely the last owner just doubled the gaskets instead of finding proper replacment ones. Oh well, can't wait till the engine part is fixed so I can start doing the inside. But then again I am already running out of money Didn't realize exactly what I was getting into, but this boat will be sweet when done. I hope!!!!
What motor and what type of drive is your boat? Cracks in engines are typically not good. Cast iron does not typically respond well to welding. Do you have any more details on the issues with the engine?
I dont remember what the guy said. It's not the block I think it was something about the exaust manifold. He didn't seem to think it was a big deal. I won't have the boat back till the engine is fixed. When I get it I will post all pics of the boat and motor. It is being serviced at All marine in Las Vegas. When I pick it up i will know all the details. I know it's a 455 engine can't remember the maker thogh
455 would be an Oldsmobile and probably a Berkley pump. Could be a Jacuzzi. Very common combinations then. What color is the jet? White is a Berkley, black is a Jacuzzi if they haven't been painted.
That makes sense then. Those exhaust manifolds area prone to cracks. I good welder can weld aluminum no problem. Sounds like a cool old sled. Can't with to see the pics.
Didn't realize exactly what I was getting into, but this boat will be sweet when done. I hope!!!!
