Re: Help with boat restoration
Check for the mfg ID plate, possibly on the starboard side of the transom. The last digits will give you the year of mfg.
I have "restored" an 18' SuperSport bowrider recently, and did not find a OEM source for parts or even after market stuff. Ebay, boat graveyards, and your own fabrications are the best bets.
These boats are fairly simple and the fitments in those days were very basic. Usually, existing materials were adapted by the boat builders - remember the old RV's.
To do list:
Strip hull of all things attached
Remove floor
Replace transom-Clad motor well side of transom(notorious for rot) with aluminum coil stock
Prep hull for paint/Paint
Replace floor
Re-attach all fitments
Wire the boat - I have a wiring diagram that will layout everything you. PM when you get there, I'll e-mail it to you.
Take photos of everything you do, it will improve your memory and be the foundation for a brag thread
after you are done.
Do a search on the tasks listed above. There is a wealth of info concerning each. You can choose what fits your plan and your mechanical skills. It will range from redneck engineering to the elites of nothing but the best and most expensive.
Good luck, it will be a rewarding journey. My pay off, after working with my son for a year and a half, one of the grandsons asked quite sincerely, "Papa, does this boat really go in the water?" It was so close to being finished, I could say yes with a fair degree of honesty.
