83 Tracker rebuild

[Philo Bedo]

I’m currently restoring a 1983 Bass Tracker III. It has been abused by its previous owners and needs some TLC. Thankfully the 40HP only needed a starter and a lower rebuild. While I’m not new to boats this is my first boat restoration, or rather best words is updating the vessel. Still in the process of a complete tear down, removing the particle board that was identifying as marine grade plywood. I’m sure as I move forward I’ll be utilizing the groups knowledge in my endeavor on technical questions and locating parts. I’ll post pictures as I move forward.
My first question, during tear down, I noticed the front cleat is pretty compact. It looks as if it was always winched onto the trailer, instead of driving the boat on. I have already welded the crack on the front bow as well as repaired the cross member. My question is, is a compacted cleat normal? I would not think so, but it maybe the case. Like I mentioned this is my first boat restoration so you don’t know, what you don’t know, until you know it. I hate to repair something that does not need it, it is a complete tear down so really don’t want to add work, but I’m there so if it does it does, would like to do it correctly.
I am doing this as a personal project and have no intent on resale, just an old boat for a just bit older guy. (Eastern KY)
thanks in advance

 

[briangcc]

To me...and I'm no expert...that wood is shot and needs replacement. That's why that metal brace is bent 50 ways from Sunday.

I'd replace that, reform the metal brace and replace the bow eye as starters.

With a boat the size/weight you're working on, there wouldn't be a reason to power load in my mind. Winching should be more than sufficient and wouldn't cause the damage you're looking at.

 

[Philo Bedo]

Outstanding thanks for the reply. I have a feeling it’s gonna be another learning experience in my 60s

 

[MikeSchinlaub]

+1 on replacing the wood, it's done. Maybe a bigger cleat too, just to fit a second hook strapped to the trailer. Unless the one on the winch has the second strap attached to its hook.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Dad bought a 1983 factory direct. Back then, no dealers, you called them, then you drove to Springfield

It's good you know how to weld. To get the transom replaced, you need aluminum fab skills

All the livewells plumbing will have died in the late 90s as the plastic fittings last a max of 15 years