Looking to Start a Restoration

Sharkey8

Recruit
Joined
Nov 17, 2008
Messages
2
Hey guys I was reading a post on a different forum and there was a reference to the member oops! and his restoration and extension. So I sat down and went through all 94 pages of info about it (skimming of course). I was really amazed. Something about seeing the boat down to it's bare bones, and the idea of being able to "design" the boat yourself, to the point that you can install your own beer cooler in the floor. My family owns a Chaparral 276 SSX and have always owned a boat for as long as I have lived so I am familiar with boats. The thing is that I am only 16 and don't have any type of experience with the actual building aspect of it. I have always had an interest in building things though, but the opportunity has never arisen to do something like this. I told my friend of oops!'s building process and he too went through all 94 pages and was as amazed as I was. We got to thinking that if we recruit a couple more of our friends we will have enough money to buy a cheap boat and most of the supplies. The thing that we need to focus on in our boat searching is that the engine works (none of us know anything about engines) and hopefully nothing too extensive with hull repair. Are we crazy in thinking that we would be able to do anything like this, or should we just wait until we are older to undertake something like this?
 

Nova II 260

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 27, 2006
Messages
681
Re: Looking to Start a Restoration

Welcome to iBoats. The best forum for advice on your boating needs and questions. You're not too young check out Fuzzeywiggler He's doing what you are planning.
He's doing a excellent job.
Yes, he's got help and you'll need a little from time to time. But instructional comments and ideas are abound here on iBoats. Many will offer their experiences and ideas. This in itself will encourage you and keep ya motivated. Your on the right track and mind set. Get a boat without engine or drive problems. Good luck, take pics when you start the project. Research here and on the other boating forums for rebuilds. Learn, do it right and save a few dollars. But most imperative; Always wear protective gear and don't be in a hurry.

I'd trade me being too old for you being too young any day.
 

Sharkey8

Recruit
Joined
Nov 17, 2008
Messages
2
Re: Looking to Start a Restoration

Thanks for the quick responses. Looked over Fuzzey's build and was very impressed. The concerns I see arising is the lack of major tools and supplies, and while we will have the money for the boat and most main parts, I am hesitant to spend tons of money on big expensive power tools. Another thing that I was wondering is if we should look for something with or without an engine. Would like your guys input on that because me and my buds are gonna try and go boat "shopping" on Wed.
Thanks so much already.
 

legoman67

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Oct 16, 2008
Messages
636
Re: Looking to Start a Restoration

if its a good deal and you can hear the engine run then great, if you cant hear the engine run, then assume it doesnt. are you looking at I/O's? or outboards?

outboards are easier to replace in the sence that they are all one unit, and boats arent usually too picky about what outboard is on it, inboards are trickier to remove, and usually require the use of a crane or tractor, etc. Also when buying a new one you have to make sure its compatible with your outdrive and bolt configuration in the hull/legs

were replacing the 2 engines in ours and its a big job, even with a tractor, forklift, and excavator availible to us. We discovered outdrive problems once the engines were out.
 

cactusprick

Cadet
Joined
Oct 9, 2008
Messages
25
Re: Looking to Start a Restoration

This is an undertaking and keep in mind, friends with money tied into a project spells trouble especially at a young age. If you can somehow overcome that you are on your way to a really sweet project with the greatest reward, something you build with your hands. not a better feeling than that. good luck
 

JaSla74

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Oct 14, 2008
Messages
506
Re: Looking to Start a Restoration

I say go for it, but keep in mind that a restore is not going to be easy. However, that is what makes it fun. Friends are great, but too many hands in the money pot may spell trouble. I'd also take your time when looking & don't buy the first rig that you come across. You may even find something cool like this (those fins are awesome)...

216b_12.jpg


I agree with Legoman regarding the outboards. They'll be much more manageable if fall into a transom stinger rebuild.
 

proshadetree

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Jul 19, 2008
Messages
1,887
Re: Looking to Start a Restoration

Your never to young.But do you want to do it.I did a frame off on a 72 rancharo in the 80s loved it.My son started a honda.Then a ranger low rider,Almost have the ranger done after 2 years.I would help when he did but he stared like he was on fire then burnt out fast.I dont know your freinds but joint ventures never seem to go well.Im an inboard freak always a small block lurking somewhere.Outboards are cheaper to replace.Find yourself a smallish boat take your time dont rush.You will learn as you go.As far as tools hand tools and a good grinder and sander will last for a long time if taken care of.You can use them on more than just your boat.Yard sales and adds on local sales papers will net you all kinds of tools and posible boats.Make sure its what you want to do before you dive in and that your parents dont mind the yard or garage tied up for a while.Good luck on the boat if you decide to do on and this site and its members will be glad to help as we can.And post pics we love um.
 

salty87

Commander
Joined
Aug 12, 2003
Messages
2,327
Re: Looking to Start a Restoration

a couple of tools from harbor freight and you're all set, less than $100.

it doesn't get any easier as you get older. none of this is rocket science, it's mostly busting your butt in uncomfortable, hard to reach places. lots of getting dirty. some safety issues to be respectful of, there are some nasty chemicals involved.
 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019
Re: Looking to Start a Restoration

warning, if you do not like dirty, dust, and other nasty stuff, in every crevice of your body, don't do it. just look at some of the pictures of Fuzzywiggler.

that said, you have to make an "outline" of the project, what has to be done to make it a safe boat, what you want to do to make it like you want. everyone has to agree. now you take the list, and break it down into projects, small projects, so that each and everyone of you can see the progress being made. this keeps you from getting overwhelmed by the overall project, and keeps your enthusiasm up, to get to the next part.

remember, 1st is getting it to be safe, then you do the cosmetics, lipstick and eye shadow. i have ran many boats for water test, sitting on a milk crate.

by the way we are getting more and more members in your age bracket, that are doing restorations, Fuzzy wiggler, Baconbiscut, Bassboy1 and there are several others.
 

Recruit

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Nov 14, 2008
Messages
33
Re: Looking to Start a Restoration

hey man, im 19 years old and have been boating my whole life. i came across a free boat that was destroyed. nothing left un rotted or ripped out besides the hull. i used this website and im just about to paint it. age doesnt mean anything if your determined!
 
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