New Guy Question---Gw Invader

[NICKINKZOO1]

Hello there gentleman

I'm new to the forum and really a novice boat guy, so any help is very much appreciated.

I'm looking at a late 60's-early 70's Gw Invader 10ft miniboat the one of my family friends has for sale. I really know almost nothing about these boats and haven't been able to find a whole lot on the net either.

Is there any problem spots i should be looking for when looking at this????
It is in definate need of paint and upholstery,,,, but neither of these is a problem for me what so ever. Bur i'm more worried about structurily what to look for. And is there any parts that would be extremely hard to find or replace if they are broken or not with the boat.

He bought this at an auction and has never had it in the water. It has a running (unsure of year) 50 hp mercury outboard on it.

Any advise or help would be extremely appreciated

thanks
nick

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: New Guy Question---Gw Invader

The first thing to look for would be transom and stringer rot. If the engine can be grabbed and moved causing the transom to flex then you have problems.
look for stress cracks in the fiberglass around the engine mounts.
The stringers are the support beams under the floor running the length of the hull.You can take a small drill bit and drill into it.If the wood shavings are dark and damp the stringers are rotted.Also poking around with an ice pick can tell you where soft wood is..Good luck and Welcome to Iboats

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: New Guy Question---Gw Invader

No stringers in a GW Invader, but some/most do have a balsa core bottom. Often saturated and soft. Check for moisture along the floor...
- Scott

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: New Guy Question---Gw Invader

One of my favorites! I wanted one so badly as a teenager.... with the headlights molded in. I am jeolous!

They are only 10' and I doubt anything would be a too major job on them. With all the modern epoxies on the market I would say go for it.

Post photos.

 

[NICKINKZOO1]

Re: New Guy Question---Gw Invader

If the balso wood is wet/saturated how involved of a job is it to replace????????

This thing has set out for a couple michigan winters with a roof over it but not a enclosed barn,,, so i'm guessing it prolly has gotten a little damp.