88 Capri Restoration (Splashed 08/2022)

[chevymaher]

Soak it in 1/2 mineral spirits 1/2 laquer thinner. Overnight then clean.

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

I ended up using white vinegar and only let it soak for 15 minutes. I scrubbed with a toothbrush, rinsed thourghly dried with compressed air.
I previously tried Grez-off, letting it soak for days, but it really didn't do what I had hoped. We use it at work as a parts cleaner(environmentally safe).
I'm very happy with the results and will rebuild it..

Thanks everyone for your input.

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

I've been reading through threads here and elsewhere but wanted to ask for your opinions on carpet weight and brand recommendations and also adhesive possibilities.
I've seen 20 oz. alot but depending on brand became expensive.
As far as adhesive I'm skeptical of what may work because of how smooth the gelcoat is.

 

[todhunter]

I chose Sparta Carpets out of Dalton, GA. I'm using their 20 oz cut pile (Bayside). I used Weldwood sprayable contact cement because I'm familiar with it. I will stick to smooth gelcoat as long as there is not wax on the surface. If you go with contact cement, just know there is virtually no chance to reposition the carpet once applied. No comment on durability yet because I just installed it a few months ago, but I think it looks good.

 

[chevymaher]

I got samples of both carpets went with the heavier. It just looks better and will last longer. I used carpet glue from home depot or somewhere. It isnt pulling loose anywhere . I got it downstairs still if you want the brand.

 

[todhunter]

I'll add that I did have bad luck with one specific boat carpet vendor - they sent me a 4x8 piece when I ordered 20x8. I tried to get them to send the correct size and after several weeks of still no receipt, I cancelled the order. I won't publicly shame them, but if you are curious about who they were, send me a PM.

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

I chose Sparta Carpets out of Dalton, GA. I'm using their 20 oz cut pile (Bayside). I used Weldwood sprayable contact cement because I'm familiar with it. I will stick to smooth gelcoat as long as there is not wax on the surface. If you go with contact cement, just know there is virtually no chance to reposition the carpet once applied. No comment on durability yet because I just installed it a few months ago, but I think it looks good.

Todd I used air dry gelcoat as my final layer if that is what you mean "with wax". I hope I am wrong

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

I got samples of both carpets went with the heavier. It just looks better and will last longer. I used carpet glue from home depot or somewhere. It isnt pulling loose anywhere . I got it downstairs still if you want the brand.

Chevy when you say heavy are you referring to 20 oz. Or something similar? I'd appreciate if you could tell me what glue you used so I can compare and did you use air dry gelcoat with that adhesive.
Thanks

 

[chevymaher]

My uncle Has done carpet for 50 years he told me whatever to what they say on the forum. Meaning paying big for marine glue. He said use this stuff it wont come off. And it didn't. I didn't do anything Just used it. It literally melts the black on the bottom of the carpet. It is the actual fibers that are glued down. I tested it.

I am pretty sure I got it at lowes. It been how many years and nothing has come loose. It isn't a matter of if it will stick. It is a matter of, it is not coming off if you screw up and get it on something LOL.

And yes the higher oz of the carpet is better. More fibers in a measured area. Thicker plusher look and once it get used and flatted out. Looks better longer.

And oh it is the home stretch for boating weather I am ready LOL.

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

My uncle Has done carpet for 50 years he told me whatever to what they say on the forum. Meaning paying big for marine glue. He said use this stuff it wont come off. And it didn't. I didn't do anything Just used it. It literally melts the black on the bottom of the carpet. It is the actual fibers that are glued down. I tested it.

I am pretty sure I got it at lowes. It been how many years and nothing has come loose. It isn't a matter of if it will stick. It is a matter of, it is not coming off if you screw up and get it on something LOL.

And yes the higher oz of the carpet is better. More fibers in a measured area. Thicker plusher look and once it get used and flatted out. Looks better longer.

And oh it is the home stretch for boating weather I am ready LOL.

Thanks Chevy!

It can be purchased at Lowes and I like the price!
I'm glad you gave those details on the glue like you did so I can be extra careful and get everything prepped and protected beforehand.
I am counting the days for boating weather also, I plan on a short test in the water before the best weather comes (early May) because I'm sure I'll need to adjust something!
My new control cales just came as well as the new OMC cable adapters but still need a couple other small items before the "test".

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

Just a little update.
I have a few of the "small" things purchased so when the weather breaks "soon I hope " I can install them to do a small test in mid-May "target anyway ".........

Power valve and piston
Air fuel mixture screws
Gas cap..... yes no joke
Control Cables
Fuel filler hose
Battery cables.....main and solenoid

I plan on getting the dwell, timing, idle and whatever else set when sitting in the water.

I'm still unsure about the carpet because I would like a taller pile. The samples I asked for 20, 24 oz. are nice but I'd like it a bit taller. The dilemma I'm in is the cost difference because whim Tod recommended is a great price but it isn't quite what I want but should I settle or spend bucco bucks........hmmmm

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

Well, I got her moved into the driveway and ordered the last few things that I feel should be replaced before setting her in the water for the first time in 8 years.

I ordered:
Fuel fill, vent, bilge hose (original from new)
Bought bilge blower hose

Need to install:
Control Cables
Speedometer pickup
Hoses fore-mentioned
Carburetor once rebuilt
Spark arrestor parts

I also measured carpet quantity I need and am awaiting a quote so obviously will need to install that also.

It isn't a large list but gives me anxiety
I'm hopeful everything above works out because I have improvements I'd like to do eventually.

 

[sopwithcamel74]

Man are you close! Barring anything unforeseen, you'll be ripping up and down the waterways in no time.

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

Man are you close! Barring anything unforeseen, you'll be ripping up and down the waterways in no time.

I know, and I think that is where the anxiety is coming from! I can't believe this is my third year working towards this moment. I don't think I could handle setbacks at this point lol.

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

Just some of the small things I purchased, not all were needed but I figured get them since they were available and would be used in the future.
Now time to get busy lol.

 

[chevymaher]

I had several major setbacks. If you do dont loose heart. Once it is going for good it is a new boat. You quickly forget the trials on the way. As my buddy says. Your at the best part of boating. No payments just gas oil and wind in your hair.

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

Hi all,
I made a decision on color (Jasmine), which is closer than I expected.
I always thought that the original carpet had a taller pile and heavier weight, but I couldn't believe how wrong I was as the pictures tell the story.
I decided on 24 oz. Which was a very small increase in price compared to the 20 oz.
I also wanted to mention that it seems one might need to pay attention to the direction of the carpet when going over corners because from at least what the samples demonstrated if you go the wrong way with it the rows show a gap.
I don't know if this is normal but it's something I wanted to mention.

 

[88 Capri (2022 SOTY)]

I had several major setbacks. If you do, don't lose heart. Once it is going for good, it is a new boat. You quickly forget the trials on the way. As my buddy says, You are at the best part of boating. No payments just gas oil and wind in your hair.

The question I always have running through my mind is "What did I forget?"
The main thing is, don't forget the drain plug!

 

[sopwithcamel74]

Hi all,
I made a decision on color (Jasmine), which is closer than I expected.
I always thought that the original carpet had a taller pile and heavier weight, but I couldn't believe how wrong I was as the pictures tell the story.
I decided on 24 oz. Which was a very small increase in price compared to the 20 oz.
I also wanted to mention that it seems one might need to pay attention to the direction of the carpet when going over corners because from at least what the samples demonstrated if you go the wrong way with it the rows show a gap.
I don't know if this is normal but it's something I wanted to mention.

With your interior being in as good a shape as it was, I'm not surprised to see you keeping more or less the same color scheme with the carpet.

Blue is my fave color, but since my interior was completely shot AND had been partially redone, I have no idea what colors anything is going to be.

 

[chevymaher]

The question I always have running through my mind is "What did I forget?"
The main thing is, don't forget the drain plug!

LOL I did on the test float the second time. It was just sitting on the trailer in the water. I was just checking for leaks. My son said hey dad look water is shooting out the side of the boat. Well bilge pump works. I forgot the plug.