1958 Tomahawk Ski Mate Restoration

[TOMAHAWK]

I just purchased a 1958 Tomahawk Ski Mate. The boat is in great condition, very sound. I need to purchase a motor, and the spec say that the transom height is 15" and the Max. O.B.C. H.P. is 65 H.P. Max O.B.C Load is 1025#. I found a 1974 Johnson 65 H.P. with controls and a long shaft. However, a boat dealer told me that this is an antique boat and I will not be able to get a motor to fit on it. He said I would have to have the boat completely re-done, and it probably would not be worth the expense (he has not seen the boat). Is this true? If not, do I need to worry about putting this size motor on the boat as it is older. The transom seems to be sound. Thanks!

 

[CATransplant]

Re: 1958 Tomahawk Ski Mate Restoration

Well, you don't want to put a long shaft outboard on that boat, since it has a 15" transom. You could convert that 65 to a short shaft, or look for a short shaft version.

As for what your dealer said, you need to check the transom carefully for soundness, but if it's sound, you can put up to a 65 hp motor on there, if that's what the max hp is for that boat. Or...you might find that a 50hp is easier to find, and it would still push that boat along just fine.

Dealers are in the business of selling boats, so I'd take what one said with a grain of salt, but make sure your boat is sound before strapping on the outboard and heading for the lake.

Lots of folks are out there restoring old classic boats, and they all seem to be able to find engines that will fit. The hot ticket is to get an outboard that matches the year of the boat and restore it as well. A 58 or 59 Fat Fifty would be a great match for your boat, and would do a great job of pushing it.

There are many of them around, and for a reasonable price, too. I've seen them in great running condition for around $400-500. A little cosmetic work and they can look like new.

You'll be a hit at the lake.

 

[Fulcrum]

Re: 1958 Tomahawk Ski Mate Restoration

I wouldn't listen to the dealer. He's just trying to make a sale. You could have JFK's yacht and he would tell you it wasn't worth owning.

A 1950's ski boat would be a really cool project. Post some pics. I would love to see em.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1958 Tomahawk Ski Mate Restoration

double posted, let the other one die. transferred my reply:
you need a short shaft motor. for the 15" transom. or a jack plate, which on that age boat i don't recommend. if you use the long shaft it will be too deep in the water, causing drag, bad performance. the soundness of the transon is not the problem. how about posting some pictures of it. i love doing restorations, just finished a '56 Duracraft, and splashed it today to find out the 58 35hp Johnson has a bad clutch dog.